12 Documentaries on the Yemeni Civil War
Essential Viewing for Understanding the Conflict
The Yemeni Civil War, which began in 2014, has seen profound human suffering and a complex array of political and social upheavals. It has drawn attention globally, with a variety of documentaries seeking to shed light on the intricate and often hidden aspects of this conflict. These films offer invaluable insights, chronicling personal stories, political dynamics, and the broader impacts on Yemeni society.
For those seeking to better grasp the realities of the Yemeni Civil War, documentaries are an essential resource. Each film provides a unique perspective, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the ongoing crisis. Through these visual narratives, viewers gain a closer look at both the human cost and the geopolitical intricacies that continue to shape the conflict.
1) Under the Bombs: A Documentary on Yemen's Conflict
"Under the Bombs" (2019) delves into the harrowing experiences of civilians living in Yemen amidst continuous airstrikes and warfare. The documentary offers a raw portrayal of the day-to-day struggles faced by ordinary people caught in the crossfire.
The film captures moments of resilience and perseverance as Yemeni families navigate the dangers surrounding them. Viewers witness the juxtaposition of fear and hope, offering an intimate look into the human spirit enduring in crisis.
Scenes depict the physical and psychological impacts of the bombings, shedding light on the often-overlooked personal stories behind the headlines. Through personal accounts, the documentary aims to foster a deeper understanding of the conflict's severe humanitarian toll.
More on "Under the Bombs" can be found at IMDb.
2) Yemen: The Silent War by Safa AlAhmad (2018)
"Yemen: The Silent War" is a powerful short documentary directed by Sufian Abulohom. The film focuses on the stories of Yemeni refugees living in the Markazi Refugee Camp.
More than 3 million people have been internally displaced since the conflict began in early 2015. Around 180,000 Yemeni citizens have fled the country, seeking safety in neighboring nations.
The documentary offers a glimpse into the daily lives and struggles of these refugees. Shot with a focus on the emptiness and dire conditions of the camp, it highlights the human impact of the war.
The film has received notable accolades, including the Award of Merit at the Impact Doc Awards in 2018 and Best Animation at DOC LA in 2019.
For more details, visit its IMDb page.
3) Hunger Ward: Frontline in Yemen (2020)
"Hunger Ward" is a 2020 documentary directed by Skye Fitzgerald. The film dives into the severe humanitarian crisis in Yemen, highlighting the impacts of the ongoing famine.
Filmed inside two active therapeutic feeding centers, the documentary focuses on the work of two female health care workers, Dr. Aida Alsadeeq and Nurse Mekkia Mahdi. Their efforts provide a stark view into the fight against malnutrition.
The film brings visibility to the human toll of Yemen's conflict. It underscores the daily struggles faced by health professionals on the ground, as they combat a largely ignored famine.
For more details, refer to its Wikipedia page.
4) Trapped by War by Al-Jazeera
"Trapped by War" by Al-Jazeera (2017) offers an in-depth examination of the lives of civilians in Yemen amidst the ongoing conflict. This documentary captures the harrowing realities faced by many as they navigate daily survival in a war-torn country.
The film provides unique, on-the-ground perspectives from Yemen. It delves into various aspects of the humanitarian crisis, including healthcare challenges, food scarcity, and the impact on children and families.
Through interviews and personal stories, "Trapped by War" sheds light on the resilience and struggles of Yemeni people. The documentary also addresses the broader implications of the conflict and how it has reshaped the country.
For viewers seeking to understand the human cost of the Yemeni Civil War, "Trapped by War" offers an essential and poignant narrative.
More information: Trapped by War on IMDB
5) Yemen Can't Wait by Human Rights Watch (2023)
The documentary "Yemen Can't Wait" by Human Rights Watch provides an in-depth look into the devastating human impact of the Yemeni Civil War.
Released in 2023, this film highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis, focusing on the severe hardships faced by civilians.
The film calls attention to the plight of internally displaced persons, particularly children, who suffer due to lack of basic necessities.
It also sheds light on the role of international actors in the conflict, including the support provided by external military forces to parties involved in the war.
Overall, the documentary serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and conflict resolution in Yemen.
For more information on "Yemen Can't Wait", visit IMDB.
6) The Bleeding Edge by PBS (2017)
"The Bleeding Edge," produced by PBS, delivers an in-depth examination of the harrowing effects of the Yemeni Civil War.
This documentary delves into the profound humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict, with a specific focus on the civilian toll. It highlights personal stories of hardship and resilience among Yemeni citizens caught in the crossfire.
The production team, led by Martin Smith, provides unfiltered access to on-the-ground realities. The footage includes interviews with civilians, activists, and aid workers, offering a multifaceted view of the war's impact.
This documentary also explores the broader geopolitical dynamics, including the roles of Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the United States, to explain how the civil war has evolved into a proxy conflict.
For more information on "The Bleeding Edge," visit PBS.
7) Children of Yemen by VICE (2018)
"Children of Yemen," a documentary by VICE, provides a critical look at the devastating impact of Yemen's civil war on its youngest and most vulnerable population.
This documentary highlights the severe malnutrition crisis, with aid agencies reporting that one child dies from hunger or preventable diseases every ten minutes.
The film incorporates firsthand accounts and footage of the dire conditions within the country. It features stories of children like Bader al-Harbi, whose right leg was amputated, symbolizing the physical and emotional scars borne by Yemeni youth.
For more information on "Children of Yemen," visit IMDB.
8) The War in Yemen by The Guardian
The War in Yemen by The Guardian (2021) provides an insightful look into the complex dynamics of the Yemeni Civil War.
This documentary features original reporting and incisive analysis, giving viewers a deeper understanding of the conflict. It highlights the chaos and resilience within Yemen, focusing on both the dire conditions and moments of rare joy experienced by its people.
The visual storytelling includes powerful imagery and personal stories from Yemeni citizens. This film emphasizes the humanitarian crisis, showcasing the extent of the suffering and the urgent need for international aid and attention.
For more on this documentary, visit IMDB.
9) The Forgotten War by Channel 4 (2019)
"The Forgotten War" by Channel 4 delves into the complex and often underreported aspects of the Yemeni Civil War.
This documentary investigates the origins and key events that escalated the conflict. It reveals the humanitarian crises, focusing on the dire consequences for civilians, especially children suffering from malnutrition.
Channel 4's timely release highlights the international political dynamics. It explores how external powers, including Saudi Arabia and Iran, influence the war, further complicating the peace process.
Through in-depth interviews and firsthand footage, "The Forgotten War" offers a sobering view. It aims to bring global attention to the ongoing struggles faced by the Yemeni people.
For more information, visit IMDb.
10) Inside Yemen by BBC News (2019)
"Inside Yemen" by BBC News offers a rare glimpse into the heart of a country torn apart by nearly a decade of civil conflict. Released in 2019, this documentary thoroughly examines the impact of the Yemeni Civil War on civilians and infrastructure.
The film highlights the humanitarian catastrophe that has unfolded, emphasizing the plight of children and families caught in the crossfire. It documents the dire conditions in hospitals and the struggle to access basic necessities like food and clean water.
The documentary also delves into the political and military dynamics, showcasing how different factions, including Houthi forces and a Saudi-led coalition, contribute to the ongoing conflict. Interviews with locals and experts provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexity and severity of the situation.
"Inside Yemen" serves as an important visual record of the challenges faced by Yemenis, bringing international attention to a crisis often overlooked. For more information on the film, visit the IMDB page.
11) Saudi Arabia's War on Yemen
Saudi Arabia's intervention in the Yemeni Civil War started in March 2015. Leading a coalition of nine countries, Saudi Arabia aimed to restore the government of Yemeni President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi, who had been ousted by the Houthi insurgents.
The conflict became a proxy war, with Saudi Arabia backing Hadi's forces and Iran supporting the Houthis. This involvement exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
Airstrikes by the Saudi-led coalition have been heavily criticized. Civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure have drawn condemnation from international bodies. Additionally, the blockade imposed by the coalition has resulted in severe shortages of food and medical supplies.
Saudi Arabia's role in the war includes strategic bombings, ground operations, and support for local militias. Despite efforts at peace talks, the conflict continues to be deeply entrenched with no clear resolution in sight.
External Link: Arabia's War on Yemen
12) The Cost of Conflict: Yemen by Bertha Foundation (2016)
"The Cost of Conflict: Yemen" by the Bertha Foundation examines the profound humanitarian crises resulting from the Yemeni Civil War. Released in 2016, this documentary offers an in-depth look at the devastation faced by the country's civilians.
The film covers multiple aspects of the crisis, focusing on the acute conditions affecting millions, including widespread malnutrition and disease. It highlights the role of humanitarian organizations struggling to provide relief.
Viewers get a comprehensive view of the challenges posed by the conflict. The documentary sheds light on the international response and the ongoing efforts to alleviate suffering.
For more information, visit IMDb or Wikipedia.
Historical Context
The Yemeni Civil War, which began in 2014, stems from longstanding regional, political, and sectarian divisions. This conflict involves complex alliances and global implications, drawing significant international attention.
Origins of the Yemeni Civil War
The roots of the Yemeni Civil War trace back to the Arab Spring of 2011, which saw protests against President Ali Abdullah Saleh's 33-year rule. Saleh's eventual resignation, influenced by a transition plan brokered by the Gulf Cooperation Council, led to his successor, Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi, taking power.
Under Hadi’s leadership, Yemen faced numerous challenges, including economic instability, corruption, and dwindling natural resources. The Houthi movement, a rebel group from northern Yemen with Shia roots, capitalized on these weaknesses. By 2014, the Houthis had captured the capital, Sanaa, forcing Hadi into exile.
Key Players and Alliances
Houthis: The Houthi movement, officially known as Ansar Allah, is a Zaidi Shia group rooted in Yemen’s northern Saada province. They purportedly receive support from Iran, a claim both Iran and the Houthis have variously denied and acknowledged.
Hadi Government: The internationally recognized government, led by President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi, is supported primarily by Saudi Arabia and its coalition partners, including the United Arab Emirates.
Southern Secessionists: Another significant faction consists of southern secessionists seeking independence for South Yemen. Supported occasionally by the UAE, they complicate Yemen’s already fragmented political landscape.
Al-Qaeda and ISIS: Both terrorist organizations have exploited the power vacuum and instability, controlling various territories and contributing to the chaos.
Saudi-led Coalition: Formed in 2015, this coalition includes several Arab nations allied with Hadi’s government. They have conducted extensive airstrikes, often criticized for high civilian casualties.
Western Powers: Countries like the United States and the United Kingdom support the Saudi-led coalition through arms sales and logistical assistance, further internationalizing the conflict.
Understanding these origins and alliances is crucial for comprehending the complexities and the human cost of the Yemeni Civil War.
Impact on Yemen
The Yemeni Civil War has led to severe humanitarian crises and economic turmoil, deeply affecting the lives of Syrian civilians. Critical resources are scarce, and millions of people are in dire need of basic necessities.
Humanitarian Crisis and Civilian Casualties
Yemen has been described as suffering from the world's worst humanitarian crisis. The civil war, ongoing for nine years, has caused significant harm to civilians. Over 18 million people, including nearly 10 million children, require lifesaving support.
Healthcare facilities are overwhelmed and under-resourced. Diseases like cholera have spread uncontrollably. Food insecurity is rampant, with millions facing starvation due to disrupted supply chains.
Civilian casualties are a stark indicator of the crisis's severity. Thousands of Yemeni civilians have lost their lives in airstrikes, and many more have been injured. Conflict zones are fraught with danger, making everyday life perilous for the population.
Economic Consequences
The war has devastated Yemen's economy. A once functional system has collapsed under constant conflict. Essential infrastructure, including transportation and communication networks, lies in ruins. This has significantly hindered economic activities.
Unemployment rates have soared. The destruction of businesses and lack of investments have left millions jobless. Many families now rely on humanitarian aid as their primary source of assistance. Inflation has spiked, causing the prices of basic goods to skyrocket.
With limited access to banking facilities and a crippled economy, trading has become difficult. Yemen's currency has devalued drastically, worsening the plight of its people. Economic recovery, at this point, looks precarious without substantial international aid.
International Involvement
The Yemeni Civil War saw extensive involvement from various foreign powers and international organizations, each influencing the conflict's trajectory and humanitarian outcomes significantly.
Role of Foreign Powers
Saudi Arabia led a coalition of nine countries, including the UAE, Kuwait, and Sudan, in supporting the Yemeni government against the Houthi rebels. The coalition launched airstrikes and provided logistical support, driven by fears of Iranian influence in Yemen. Iran is accused of backing the Houthi movement with arms and training, although it denies direct involvement. Additionally, the conflict attracted global arms sales, with the USA, UK, and France supplying weapons to Saudi Arabia, exacerbating the war's impact on civilians.
UN and International Diplomacy
The United Nations has played a crucial role in mediating peace talks and providing humanitarian aid. UN Special Envoys have attempted cease-fire agreements and facilitated dialogues between conflicting parties. Despite these efforts, consistent funding shortages have hampered the UN’s capacity to deliver food and medical supplies, leaving millions on the brink of starvation. International diplomacy, while persistent, has struggled to bring about a lasting resolution, highlighting the complexities and challenges posed by the multi-faceted interests in Yemen.
