Air strikes by the United States on Yemen’s Ras Isa oil port have resulted in at least 74 deaths and left 171 people injured, according to Houthi officials. This attack, which occurred on Thursday, is one of the deadliest carried out by U.S. forces in Yemen.
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the strikes aimed to disrupt the Houthis’ fuel and revenue sources. CENTCOM described the operation as necessary to weaken the economic power of the Iran-backed group. Reports from the ground indicate that the air strikes targeted several areas, primarily around the oil port, catching workers off guard during their duties.
Witnesses reported that the initial strikes occurred while employees, including truck drivers, were present at the port. The attack has sparked widespread condemnation in Yemen, particularly due to the high number of civilian casualties and the strategic importance of Ras Isa, which is crucial for the country’s imports and humanitarian aid.
Ras Isa is vital for Yemen, with approximately 70% of its imports and 80% of humanitarian assistance passing through its ports. Footage shared by Houthi-affiliated media showed massive explosions and scenes of destruction, including close-ups of injured workers and damaged infrastructure.
This recent U.S. attack marks a significant escalation in military actions against the Houthis. In March, similar strikes resulted in over 50 deaths. The United Nations has highlighted Ras Isa as critical infrastructure for Yemen.
Following the air strikes, members of the Yemeni Red Crescent and civil defense forces were sent to the site to provide medical aid and help extinguish fires. Houthi officials condemned the strikes, claiming that such actions would not deter the Yemeni people from supporting Gaza but would instead strengthen their resolve.
In a related development, the Israeli military reported intercepting a missile launched from Yemen shortly after the U.S. strikes. Since November 2023, the Houthis have claimed responsibility for over 100 attacks on vessels they allege are linked to Israel, framing these actions as retaliation for Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. Washington has warned the Houthis that military actions will continue until they cease their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea.