The United States military has intensified its airstrikes in Yemen, leading to significant casualties, according to reports from Houthi-affiliated media. Recent attacks in the capital, Sanaa, and surrounding areas have resulted in at least 76 deaths, including eight people in a strike on the Bani al-Harith district and 68 at a migrant detention facility in Saada.
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed that it has conducted over 800 strikes in Yemen since mid-March, with the death toll from these operations exceeding 250. The military has not provided detailed information about specific strikes, citing operational security. However, CENTCOM stated that many of the strikes have targeted Houthi fighters and leaders, aiming to disrupt their activities, especially those threatening shipping in the Red Sea and launching attacks against Israel.
The migrant detention center that was hit reportedly housed around 100 individuals from Ethiopia and other African nations. These migrants were attempting to reach Saudi Arabia for work, but the journey through Yemen is fraught with danger, including the risk of detention and violence. The recent airstrike echoes a tragic incident in 2022 when a Saudi-led coalition airstrike on a similar facility resulted in numerous deaths and injuries.
The U.S. military’s operations have escalated as tensions in the region rise, particularly due to the Houthis’ missile attacks on Israel, which they claim are retaliation for Israel’s actions in Gaza. The U.S. is conducting its strikes from two aircraft carriers stationed in the region, the USS Harry S. Truman and the USS Carl Vinson.
Despite the ongoing strikes, Houthi forces continue to launch missiles at U.S. vessels and Israel, demonstrating their resilience in the face of increased military pressure. As the situation develops, the humanitarian impact of these airstrikes remains a pressing concern, with many civilians caught in the crossfire.