War Information
10 sectionsThe Arhab District, located 20 km north of Sana'a, has been one of the most strategically important conflict zones in the Yemen war due to its location at the junction of Amran, Al-Jawf and Sana'a governorates.
Houthi Seizure of Arhab (December 2014)
Houthi militants seized Arhab district on December 13, 2014
They took control of homes belonging to al-Islah party leaders and blew up the party's headquarters
The operation was carried out in cooperation with forces loyal to former President Ali Abdullah Saleh
Airstrike on a Hotel in Arhab (August 2017)
The Saudi-led coalition bombed a small hotel in Arhab
At least 35 to 60 people were killed (mostly Houthi forces)
The hotel building completely collapsed
The UN condemned the attack as a violation of human rights
Ground Clashes and Civilian Casualties (August 2017)
August 23, 2017: Heavy clashes between Houthis and government forces in Arhab
Approximately 40 people were killed, including 5 internally displaced persons
UNHCR: This incident illustrates disregard for civilian safety in Yemen
Government Forces Advance Towards Sana'a Gate (March 2018)
The Yemeni army, with Arab coalition support, expanded operations towards northeast Sana'a
Government forces entered "Horan," the first district in Arhab northeast of Sana'a
The goal was to restore the capital from Houthi control
Arhab's strategic position: Adjacent to Sana'a International Airport and Al Daylami Air Base
Strategic Importance of Arhab
Arhab serves as the northern gateway to Sana'a, connecting Amran, Al-Jawf and Sana'a governorates
From Arhab, forces can move west to Amran governorate to cut the road between Sana'a and Saada
Arhab tribes (such as the Baqil tribe) largely do not support the Houthis
With support from the Hamdan tribe, Sana'a could be encircled
The region lies on the route to Marib (the government's last northern stronghold)
