Nearly 1,200 children have been killed or injured in Yemen since a United Nations brokered truce took effect four years ago, according to a new analysis by Save the Children, underscoring the persistent dangers facing civilians despite reduced frontline fighting.
The United Kingdom based humanitarian organization said Thursday that at least 339 children have been killed and 843 injured since the ceasefire began on 2 April 2022. The data, drawn from the Civilian Impact Monitoring Project, highlights the enduring threat posed by unexploded ordnance, landmines and other remnants of war.
While overall civilian casualties have declined since the truce helped curb large scale hostilities between the Saudi backed Yemeni government and Houthi forces, the proportion of children harmed has risen significantly.
According to the report, nearly half of all child casualties, 511 cases, were linked to landmines and explosive remnants of war. Children were found to be more than three times as likely as adults to be injured or killed by such hazards.
Landmines continue to pose a growing threat
Humanitarian experts say the increased risk stems from a combination of limited mine risk awareness and children’s greater exposure to contaminated areas, often due to economic hardship forcing them into labour.
“These figures are a reminder that beyond the front lines, the war on children continues,” said Rishana Haniffa, Save the Children country director in Yemen.
She warned that children remain vulnerable in everyday environments, including homes, schools and agricultural land where families work to survive.
The findings also reflect a troubling shift. Compared with the four years prior to the truce, a significantly higher percentage of child casualties now involve explosive remnants rather than direct combat.
The report comes amid growing concerns that escalating regional tensions could undermine the fragile calm in Yemen.
Houthi forces have recently launched missile attacks targeting Israel, aligning with broader regional dynamics involving Iran and allied groups. The development raises fears of a wider conflict that could again engulf Yemen.
Security analysts warn that renewed hostilities could further expose civilians, especially children, to violence and disrupt already fragile humanitarian efforts.
There are also concerns about potential attacks on shipping routes in the Red Sea, which could exacerbate global trade disruptions and deepen Yemen economic crisis.
Beyond the immediate physical harm, the psychological toll on children remains severe. Many survivors suffer from permanent disabilities, including amputations, spinal injuries and loss of sight or hearing.
Families report ongoing trauma, including anxiety, fear and sleep disturbances.
One father, identified as Ahmad to protect his family identity, described the aftermath of an explosion inside their home that left his son with life changing injuries.
“I felt shocked and extremely afraid,” Ahmad said. “Everyone in the house was terrified.”
His son continues to struggle with intense fear and disrupted sleep, reflecting the invisible scars left by the conflict.
Aid organizations stress the urgent need for expanded rehabilitation services and mental health support, as well as increased efforts to clear landmines and educate communities about risks.
