Several neighborhoods in Taiz have been subjected to indiscriminate shelling, resulting in civilian casualties and permanent disabilities. The Houthi group, in control of several districts in Taiz since 2015, has been targeting civilian areas outside of their control, causing immense suffering for hundreds of citizens.
One victim of this indiscriminate shelling is Hadeel Abdulwasei, a 23-year-old who lost both of her hands in the attack. Hadeel shared her harrowing experience, recounting how a Houthi shell landed dangerously close to her while she was tending to livestock in the Al Arari area of Jabal Habashi district. The shrapnel caused severe injuries, ultimately leading to the amputation of both her hands.
I became unable to move or speak seconds after the shell fell. I was taken to Al Boraihi Hospital for treatment to save my life. After several surgeries, I realized that both my hands had been amputated, Hadeel said.
Sadly, Hadeel is not the only victim of this indiscriminate shelling. The number of civilian casualties continues to rise as the military and political conflict in Yemen rages on.
Despite her devastating injury, Hadeel’s determination to succeed and her passion for life remained unwavering. She completed her education after her health improved, recalling the moments when she couldn’t use a pen during her school days. Determined to overcome her disability, she began practicing writing with her feet and eventually honed her skills to the point where she can now write independently.
While Hadeel faced numerous challenges due to her physical disability, her unwavering commitment to her goals and the support she received from her friends, family, and local community helped propel her forward. The Ehtirafi Institute played a crucial role in supporting Hadeel, providing her with scholarships in computer science and English.
The clashes between the Houthi group and the Yemeni government forces continue to claim civilian lives and cause injuries in different districts of Taiz. The Human Rights Information and Training Center has documented approximately 530 violations against civilians in Taiz in its latest report.
The report highlights the Houthi group’s responsibility for the majority of these violations, with non-state armed actors and individuals affiliated with political factions within the government army also contributing to the violence.
Despite the ongoing conflict and the challenges faced by individuals like Hadeel, their determination to succeed and overcome their disabilities serves as an inspiration to others. Hadeel’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of education and support in rebuilding lives shattered by violence.
As the conflict in Yemen persists, it is crucial to shed light on the innocent civilians caught in the crossfire and advocate for an end to the violence. The world must take notice of these indiscriminate attacks and work towards a peaceful resolution that ensures the safety and well-being of all Yemeni citizens.
