TAIZ — The National Committee for Women has strongly condemned the assassination of Director of the Cleaning and Improvement Fund in Taiz, who was gunned down earlier this week in a targeted attack that shocked civil society and women's rights advocates across Yemen.

In an official statement, the committee described the killing as a “heinous crime” and a “direct assault on women’s participation in public life,” calling for an urgent investigation and accountability for those responsible.

Al-Mashahri , known for her leadership in municipal services and her advocacy for community development, was shot by unknown assailants while leaving her office in central Taiz. Local authorities have launched a probe, but no arrests have been made as of Thursday evening.

“This crime is not only a violation of human rights, but a deliberate attempt to silence women in leadership,” the committee said. “We demand justice and protection for all women working in public service.”

The assassination has sparked widespread outrage among activists, civil servants, and international observers, who view the attack as part of a broader pattern of threats and violence against women in Yemen’s conflict zones.

Human rights organizations have echoed the committee’s call for a transparent investigation and urged authorities to ensure the safety of female professionals, especially those in government and humanitarian roles.