More than 2,000 people have fled Yemen for neighboring Djibouti as fighting between Houthi forces and government troops intensifies, amid a sharp escalation in displacement, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said Sunday.

The latest arrivals are part of a broader wave of displacement triggered by renewed conflict in Yemen. According to the IOM, 85,818 people have been displaced so far, including around 82,000 who have fled their homes since the beginning of September.

The surge in displacement comes as clashes between the Iran-aligned Houthis and forces loyal to Yemen’s internationally recognized government continue to escalate in parts of the country.

The growing number of people seeking refuge in Djibouti highlights the widening humanitarian impact of Yemen’s renewed fighting, placing additional pressure on neighboring countries and humanitarian agencies responding to the influx.

Yemen has remained mired in conflict since 2014, when the Houthis seized control of the capital, Sanaa, prompting a Saudi-led military intervention the following year. Despite periods of relative calm and diplomatic efforts, the country continues to face severe political, security and humanitarian challenges. (ILKHA)