Yemen’s Taiz Under Siege as Houthi Rebels Encircle City, Sparking Fears of New Crisis

Houthi rebels encircle Yemen's Taiz, triggering fears of another siege. Residents rush to buy essentials as supplies dwindle.

Editorial Desk

October 13, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Taiz, Yemen — Fear has gripped Yemen’s third-largest city, Taiz, as Houthi rebels encircle it in a new siege, raising concerns of a humanitarian crisis. Residents are scrambling to secure food and supplies, with some resorting to burning wood and cardboard for cooking as fuel shortages worsen.

The siege has disrupted access to government-held areas, cutting off most supply routes and triggering panic among the more than 1 million residents. Explosions from ongoing clashes between pro-government forces and Houthi rebels can be heard in the distance, reminding locals of the devastation they endured during earlier years of the conflict.

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Residents like Weam Abdullah and her family have already fled the city, fearing a repeat of the hardships they faced during previous sieges. The situation has led to rising prices for food and water, and hospitals are struggling to maintain essential services due to a lack of diesel and medical supplies.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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Editorial Desk

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