The UN refugee agency UNHCR has warned that renewed fighting in Yemen could drive around 10,000 people across the Red Sea to Djibouti and internally displace more than 230,000 others.
Key facts
- UNHCR warned of rising displacement linked to renewed fighting in Yemen.
- Up to 10,000 people could flee across the Red Sea to Djibouti.
- More than 230,000 people could be displaced internally within Yemen.
- The warning was reported on 22 September 2026.
The United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, has warned that renewed fighting in Yemen risks triggering a significant new wave of displacement, both within the country and across the Red Sea to neighbouring Djibouti.
According to the agency, renewed conflict could drive around 10,000 people to flee across the Red Sea to Djibouti. The crossing separates Yemen from the Horn of Africa and has long been used by people moving in both directions during periods of instability.
UNHCR also cautioned that the fighting could displace more than 230,000 people internally within Yemen, adding to the strain on communities already affected by years of conflict.
The warning, reported by Al Jazeera on 22 September 2026, highlights the humanitarian risks associated with any escalation in hostilities in the country.
The figures cited by the agency represent projections tied to renewed fighting, underscoring concern among humanitarian organisations about the potential scale of population movement should the situation deteriorate further.
Why it matters
Large-scale displacement places immediate pressure on humanitarian resources both inside Yemen and in receiving areas such as Djibouti. The UN's warning signals that renewed fighting could deepen an already severe humanitarian situation for hundreds of thousands of people.
Frequently asked questions
How many people could flee Yemen to Djibouti?
UNHCR says renewed fighting could drive around 10,000 people to flee across the Red Sea to Djibouti.
How many people could be displaced inside Yemen?
According to UNHCR, more than 230,000 people could be displaced internally within Yemen as a result of renewed fighting.
Who issued the warning?
The warning was issued by UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, and reported by Al Jazeera on 22 September 2026.