HUDAYDAH, 17 May 2021 — A disturbing pattern of indiscriminate hostilities impacting residential areas in recent days in the Hudaydah governorate has resulted in yet more reports of civilian losses and injuries.

There are reports that one of the latest incidents has led to the death of one civilian and injury of another five after a drone strike at a restaurant in the Taif area of Al Durayhimi yesterday, as people gathered during the Eid Al Fitr celebration.

The Head of the United Nations Mission to support the Hudaydah Agreement and Chair of the Redeployment Coordination Committee Lieutenant General (Ret) Abhijit Guha condemns this incident noting that the continued disregard of civilian lives and ongoing impact of fighting on residential areas must cease. He further appeals to both parties to adhere to their obligations to protect civilians under international humanitarian and human rights laws.

“As we pass through one of the most holy periods of the Islamic calendar, I urge the parties to respect the sanctity of human life and protect civilians as per their obligations and undertake steps that will move further towards peace in the governorate and across Yemen,” he said.

Lt. Gen. Guha sends his condolences to the family of the deceased and wishes a speedy recovery to all those injured.