The UN's refugee agency IOM is resuming return flights for Ethiopian migrants in Yemen. These flights have been on hold since September.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) announced its resumption of humanitarian voluntary repatriation flights from Yemen to Ethiopia on December 11.

These are the first to take place since September.

Over 200,000 migrants require humanitarian assistance in Yemen

"This marks just the beginning of this joint endeavor, and in light of the demand, we anticipate further collaboration to address the pressing needs of stranded migrants despite the limited resources for VHR (voluntary humanitarian return) in both Yemen and Ethiopia," said Matt Huber, Acting Chief of Mission of IOM Yemen.

Nearly 95,000 migrants arrived in Yemen between January and November this year, surpassing the total arrivals recorded in 2022, which stood at approximately 70,000.

IOM estimates that over 200,000 migrants, primarily from East Africa and the Horn of Africa, urgently require humanitarian assistance in Yemen.

Three years ago, 29-year-old Hayat embarked on a grueling journey from Ethiopia to Yemen, looking for better job opportunities.

"Six months ago, I moved to Sana'a with my babies to seek help," Hayat explains. "Since then, I have been waiting to finally reunite with my family."

VHR flights are considered a lifeline for stranded migrants in Yemen. The program establishes an efficient system for dignified returns to Ethiopia, ensuring essential access, logistics, and safety measures.