RANIA ABDULLAH

Yemen - An armed attack in the Yemeni city of Taiz sparked widespread outrage. On the morning of September 18, Aftihan al-Mashhari, the director of the Sanitation and Development Fund and a member of the "Wahj Women's Coalition," was targeted and killed in her vehicle by unidentified gunmen.

According to eyewitnesses, the perpetrators opened fire directly on Aftihan al-Mashhari. She died at the scene and was taken to Revolutionary Hospital in Taiz.

Following the incident, protests were held in the city, with a large number of women participating. Women marched from Revolutionary Hospital to the Taiz Police Headquarters, demanding the immediate capture of the perpetrators and their delivery to justice.

"This massacre is a clear message to women."

Human rights activist Marseille al-Asali, speaking in front of the police station, said, "This is not just a simple murder; it is a dangerous indicator that threatens the security and stability of the city. The perpetrator must be captured immediately, and the state must take the necessary steps."

Journalist Naaim Khaled stated that the attack poses a direct threat to women's social work, saying, "This incident is a message about the life and labor of every woman. The murderers must be caught and prosecuted immediately."

Preparing for indefinite protests

Human rights activist Dalia Muhammed also emphasized that women are preparing for an indefinite sit-in protest in the city, saying, "The attack on Aftihan al-Mashhari is not just targeting one person, but the local government and the existence of women. We have completely lost our security." "Not an isolated incident, but an attack on women."

Aftihan al-Mashhari, appointed Director of the Sanitation and Development Fund in 2023, was known throughout her tenure as a leader who fought corruption and worked tirelessly to serve the city. Women's organizations consider her murder not just a personal loss but a clear attack on the social role of women in Taiz.