Human Rights Watch Raises Concerns Over Excessive Force Against Southern Yemen Protesters

Human Rights Watch has raised serious concerns regarding the actions of Yemeni government forces during recent protests in southern Yemen. The organization alleges that these forces employed excessive force against demonstrators supporting the Southern Transitional Council (STC) during events that unfolded in February. The report calls for immediate investigations and accountability for the reported violations.

The organization documented instances of gunfire directed at protesters in several locations, notably in Aden and Shabwa. The clashes reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least six individuals and left dozens injured. In Aden, one protester was killed and over 25 others sustained injuries while attempting to approach the presidential palace. In Shabwa, at least five people were killed, and 39 others were injured during confrontations in the city of Ataq. Additionally, protests in Hadramout were met with live fire, leading to numerous arrests.

Human Rights Watch’s findings indicate that many of those detained were subjected to arbitrary arrests, with some held for extended periods without being formally charged or presented before a judge. The organization characterized these actions as violations of due process, emphasizing that such detentions undermine the legal rights of individuals.

Niku Jafarnia, a researcher for Human Rights Watch, criticized the Yemeni government for its contradictory stance on freedom of expression, urging authorities to uphold citizens’ rights, especially during this volatile period. The organization has called for the Yemeni government to conduct thorough and transparent investigations into the use of force against protesters and to hold accountable those responsible for any unlawful actions.

These developments occur against a backdrop of heightened tensions in southern Yemen, following the declaration of a state of emergency in December 2025 and subsequent confrontations between government forces and the STC. Human Rights Watch reiterated the importance of protecting the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, urging all parties involved to cease the ongoing cycle of violations that have persisted throughout the years of conflict.