Aden (South24 Center) 

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Yemen’s local authorities in Dhalea Governorate announced on Sunday (May 18) the reopening of the main road linking Aden to Sanaa via the Damt area, ending years of closure due to the war.

The decision was arrived at during a meeting of Dhalea’s Executive Office, chaired by Governor Major General Ali Muqbil Saleh, citing humanitarian appeals and efforts to facilitate civilian and commercial movement.

The Aden-Sanaa Road via Dhalea is one of Yemen’s most vital transport arteries. Its closure had severely impacted civilians, forcing them to use longer, rugged alternative routes, increasing transport costs, and hindering the delivery of food and medical supplies to remote areas.

Local sources told ‘South24 Center’ that maintenance work has begun on sections of the road. The Houthi group has not yet commented on the move.

Failed Previous Attempts

This development follows the failure of previous reopening efforts, most notably in March 2024, when a local mediation committee came under gunfire in the Maris area, in northern Dhalea. Both sides traded blame for the incident, derailing the initiative.

The Southern Transitional Council (STC), which controls Dhalea, had previously linked the road’s reopening to progress in comprehensive conflict-resolution talks.

Broader Context

Other key routes between northern and southern Yemen remain closed, reflecting the fragile security and political situation despite international peace efforts.

Analysts suggest the reopening may be tied to ensuring that food and medical supplies reach Houthi-controlled areas via Aden Port, particularly after the recent Israeli and US airstrikes that have severely damaged Hodeidah’s ports, a key Houthi supply line.