Statement of Condemnation Regarding the Death of Conjoined Twins Due to the Blockade and Closure of Sana’a International Airport
Statement of Condemnation Regarding the Death of Conjoined Twins Due to the Blockade and Closure of Sana’a International Airport
The Entisaf Organization for Women and Child Rights strongly condemns the death of the conjoined twins, who passed away on Saturday, August 8, 2026, while being transported by land from the capital, Sana’a, to Aden Governorate. The twins were attempting to obtain necessary medical care abroad after being unable to be airlifted due to the continued closure of Sana’a International Airport.
The organization affirms that the child’s death represents a new humanitarian tragedy added to the record of violations against Yemeni patients and children. This tragedy stems from the ongoing restrictions imposed on travel and medical treatment, and the denial of access to specialized medical centers abroad for critically ill patients. This constitutes a flagrant violation of the right to life and healthcare.
The organization notes that the child suffered from a rare and complex medical condition requiring urgent surgical intervention unavailable in Yemen. His transfer abroad was essential to save his life. However, the continued closure of Sana’a Airport deprived the child of this opportunity for treatment, ultimately leading to his death during his desperate search for a chance at survival.
The Entisaf Organization holds those responsible for the continued closure of Sana’a Airport and the restrictions imposed on patient travel accountable for exacerbating this humanitarian tragedy. It also condemns the silence of the international community and humanitarian organizations regarding the ongoing suffering of Yemeni patients and children, and calls for serious and urgent international action to lift the restrictions preventing them from accessing life-saving treatment.
The organization demands that the United Nations and international and human rights organizations fulfill their legal and humanitarian responsibilities and work to ensure the reopening of Sana’a Airport to patients and travelers, putting an end to the suffering of thousands of patients awaiting treatment abroad.
Issued by the Entisaf Organization for Women and Child Rights
Sana’a – Republic of Yemen
August 12, 2026