Yemen’s Ancient Capital Sanaa Faces Dire Struggles Amid War and Poverty

SANAA: Residents of Yemen’s ancient capital, Sanaa, continue to grapple with the devastating impacts of war, poverty, and repression as the city remains under Houthi control for over a decade. The ongoing conflict, which began when the Houthi movement seized the city in 2014, has plunged Yemen into one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.

Local inhabitants express a deep longing for the pre-war era, recalling a time when salaries were paid in full and on time. Ammar, a 24-year-old university student who requested anonymity for security reasons, shared his family’s plight: “Today, the Houthis have divided salaries into categories. My father, a civil servant, receives half a monthly salary once every three months, while my mother, a teacher, gets half-salary each month.”

The Old City of Sanaa, recognized for its historical significance with buildings dating back nearly a millennium, is bustling with life. Vendors display grains and spices, and restaurant owners grill meat over charcoal, yet the underlying economic struggles are palpable. The dire financial situation has left many families unable to meet basic needs, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

As the conflict continues, international organizations are calling for renewed efforts to address the humanitarian needs of Yemenis. Upcoming discussions among global leaders may focus on potential resolutions to the ongoing conflict and strategies to alleviate the suffering of millions.