At least 68 African migrants were killed and 47 injured in a US airstrike on a detention center in Yemen’s Houthi-controlled Saada province according to the group’s media outlet, Al Masirah. The strike reportedly hit the facility four times early Monday with graphic footage showing bodies trapped under rubble.
Victims
The detention center held 115 African migrants, mostly from Ethiopia and Somalia. Survivors described being attacked while sleeping.
Houthi Response
The group condemned the strike as a “war crime,” while the US military has not yet commented.
US Campaign
The strike follows intensified US operations against the Houthis, with over 800 targets hit since March. The Pentagon claims these strikes have killed hundreds of fighters and disrupted missile programs.
Broader Context:
Migrant Crisis: Thousands of African migrants risk dangerous journeys to Yemen, hoping to reach Saudi Arabia for work. Many face abuse, detention, and deadly conditions.
Houthi Attacks: The Iran-aligned group has targeted Red Sea shipping since November 2023, claiming solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. US and UK forces have repeatedly struck Houthi military sites in response.
Yemen’s War: The conflict, ongoing since 2015, has killed over 150,000 people and caused severe humanitarian crises.
International Reactions:
UN’s International Organization IOM expressed deep sadness and called for civilian protection.
Red Cross confirmed local medics assisted the wounded and managed the dead.
This incident highlights the escalating toll of Yemen’s conflict on vulnerable migrants and civilians caught in the crossfire.
Emebet Asefa,
Correspondent,Ethiopia
