Displacement in Yemen Surpasses 145,000 Following West Coast Escalation, IOM Reports

GENEVA/ADEN — More than 145,000 people have been displaced across eight governorates in Yemen since conflict escalated on the country's West Coast in June, according to data released by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) on 28 September 2026. The agency reported that the total displaced population reached 145,308 individuals, representing 24,218 households, after a weekly increase of 15,870 people—a rise of over 12 per cent compared to 21 September.

IOM stated that ongoing insecurity continues to force families from their homes along the West Coast and across southern areas. Abdusattor Esoev, IOM Yemen Chief of Mission, noted that displaced populations urgently require assistance, emphasizing the vulnerability of families, children, and elderly individuals who have fled the fighting.

According to the IOM figures, Ta'iz Governorate hosts the largest share of the displaced population, with 81,444 individuals—representing more than half the total across the country and an increase of nearly 8,000 compared to the previous week. Other affected governorates include Lahj with 34,860 displaced individuals, Aden with 12,456, Al Hodeidah with 8,244, Abyan with 5,568, Hadramawt with 1,974, Ma'rib with 750, and Al Maharah with 12.

Outside of Ta'iz, Aden saw the most significant rise, with its displaced population increasing by nearly 40 per cent—or 3,510 individuals—within a single week. The Al Burayqah district within Aden now accommodates close to 6,500 displaced people. The organization noted that the movement of families into urban centers has placed additional strain on local housing, basic services, and livelihoods. Displacement figures also rose in eastern regions, nearly doubling in Hadramawt and increasing by two-thirds in Abyan over the same weekly period.

IOM reported that its teams are coordinating with local authorities and humanitarian partners to deliver emergency shelter, household supplies, cash assistance, clean water, sanitation, and protection services. The agency tracks daily population movements through its Displacement Tracking Matrix to guide aid delivery.

The agency has called for the protection of civilians and aid workers, as well as safe and unimpeded humanitarian access to reach displaced families and host communities. With conditions remaining volatile, IOM warned that further displacement is possible and stated it will continue monitoring population movements.

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