AMHRI Condemns Deadly Shooting of Demonstrators in Ataq, Calls for UN Investigation
Yemen & New York – 12 February 2026
The Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration (AMHRI) strongly condemns the shooting incident that targeted demonstrators in the city of Ataq, the capital of Shabwa Governorate, on 11 February 2026, which resulted — according to the official statement issued by Shabwa General Hospital — in the killing of five individuals and the injury of thirty others, including critically wounded cases.
AMHRI affirms that the use of lethal force against civilian gatherings constitutes a grave violation of the right to life and the right to peaceful assembly as protected under international human rights law. The Association also stresses that the introduction of weapons into civilian events — if confirmed — endangers civilians and undermines the peaceful nature of public assemblies.
AMHRI calls on the United Nations Human Rights Council to open an immediate, independent and transparent international investigation into the circumstances of the incident, and to ensure full criminal accountability for all those found to be involved in accordance with international law, while taking urgent measures to protect Yemeni civilians and prevent the recurrence of such violations.
The Association extends its sincere condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery to the injured. Respect for the rule of law and accountability remains the only path toward safeguarding fundamental rights in Yemen.
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Issued by Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration (AMHRI)