Is Yemen currently in a war? How many soldiers does Yemen have?

Yemen, a nation nestled in West Asia at the southern end of the Arabian Peninsula, has become synonymous with complexity in recent years. As we explore the current situation in Yemen, the focal point remains on the ongoing civil war and the state of the Yemeni military. In this article, we delve into the multifaceted dynamics of Yemen’s civil conflict and the status of its armed forces.

Yemen’s Geopolitical Position: Officially known as the Republic of Yemen, the country shares borders with Saudi Arabia to the north and Oman to the northeast, while also having maritime boundaries with Eritrea, Djibouti, and Somalia. The capital city, Sana’a, stands as a testament to Yemen’s historical and cultural significance.

The Yemeni Civil War: The backdrop of Yemen’s current situation is the Yemeni Civil War, an ongoing multilateral conflict that commenced in late 2014. The war primarily involves two factions: the Rashad al-Alimi-led Presidential Leadership Council and the Mahdi al-Mashat-led Supreme Political Council, along with their respective supporters. The complex nature of the conflict has led to widespread displacement, humanitarian crises, and geopolitical implications.

Yemeni Army Strength: The Yemeni Army, a key player in the conflict, maintains an active strength of approximately 66,700 troops. Notably, in 2001, Yemen’s National Defense Council made a significant shift by abolishing the two-year compulsory military service. Instead, the country relies on volunteers to fill roles within the military and security forces. This change reflects a strategic decision to adapt to evolving military needs.

Challenges and Considerations: The civil war has posed immense challenges for Yemen, affecting its social fabric, economy, and overall stability. The ongoing conflict has not only strained internal dynamics but has also drawn international attention due to its far-reaching consequences. Humanitarian organizations continue to work tirelessly to address the needs of those affected by the conflict, emphasizing the urgency for a comprehensive resolution.

Yemen stands at a critical juncture, grappling with the complexities of an ongoing civil war and the challenges it presents to its people and institutions. As the Rashad al-Alimi-led Presidential Leadership Council and the Mahdi al-Mashat-led Supreme Political Council navigate the intricacies of the conflict, the world watches closely, recognizing the need for diplomatic solutions and international cooperation.

The Yemeni Army, with its active troop strength, plays a pivotal role in the unfolding narrative. The decision to rely on volunteers reflects the adaptability of Yemen’s military strategy amid the evolving landscape. As the situation unfolds, the hope remains for a peaceful resolution that will pave the way for stability, reconstruction, and the well-being of the Yemeni people.