Yemeni women shift from aid to arms in Taiz
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Women in Taiz, Yemen began providing food and supplies to soldiers defending their city from Houthi fighters, but have since expanded their efforts to include fundraising for weapons and ammunition.
As Houthi forces resumed fighting in early September and tightened a siege on Taiz, women volunteers initially baked cookies to support the army and build community morale. This evolved as the conflict intensified and rural districts fell under Houthi control, with donors requesting some funds be used for ammunition purchases.
Activists like Amira al-Saghir and Huriya Wabel explained they felt compelled to support the army with weapons due to the threat of a Houthi takeover and the restrictions on supplies reaching the city. Khadija al-Majidi regularly delivers ammunition, valued at around $3,000 per trip, along with food and clothing to fighters on the front lines.
The Supreme Council for Popular Resistance in Taiz launched a campaign on October 8 to equip 10,000 pro-government fighters, seeking donations from Yemenis both within the country and abroad. Women are contributing personal belongings, such as jewelry, alongside monetary donations, demonstrating a widespread commitment to defending Taiz despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis and nearly a decade of war.
