US Strikes on Migrant Centre in Yemen’s Saada Kill 68, Huthi Rebel Media Claims

Huthi rebel-controlled media in Yemen reported on Monday that US airstrikes targeted a migrant detention centre in Saada, killing at least 68 people. The US military has been conducting frequent strikes on Huthi positions since March 15, as part of Operation “Rough Rider.” The aim is to counter the Huthis’ threat to shipping routes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. While the US has not confirmed the strike on the migrant facility, the Huthis have reported casualties among African migrants.

Background of US Military Operations in Yemen

The ongoing conflict between the US-backed Yemeni government and the Iran-backed Huthi rebels has seen rising tensions since late 2023. The US military launched Operation Rough Rider to target Huthi forces, who have been accused of attacking Israel and Western vessels in the Red Sea in solidarity with Palestinians. Since mid-March, the US has reported striking over 800 targets in Yemen, claiming to have killed hundreds of Huthi fighters and leaders.

Migrant Detention Centre Targeted in Saada

According to the Huthi-controlled Al-Masirah TV, US airstrikes hit a migrant centre in Saada, killing 68 African migrants and injuring 47 others. The centre was reportedly holding 115 migrants, all from African countries. However, AFP could not independently verify the Huthi claims or the exact location of the strike. The attack has led to widespread condemnation, as footage from Al-Masirah showed rescuers searching for survivors amid rubble.

Many African migrants risk perilous journeys across Yemen, hoping for employment opportunities in Gulf states like Saudi Arabia. The Huthis control large parts of Yemen, and while they target foreign vessels, the migration route remains a significant risk for those escaping poverty and conflict in the Horn of Africa.

The US Military’s Counterstrike Efforts

The US military’s CENTCOM has provided more details about its airstrikes under Operation Rough Rider. According to CENTCOM, the strikes have resulted in the destruction of numerous Huthi command-and-control facilities, air defense systems, and weapons storage sites. In addition, ballistic missile launches from the Huthis have decreased by 69%, and one-way attack drone strikes have dropped by 55%.

Despite these efforts, the Huthis continue to launch attacks against US vessels and other targets in the region. The US military asserts that Iran is providing support to the Huthi rebels, further complicating the security situation. CENTCOM vowed to intensify its operations to secure freedom of navigation in the region and deter further attacks from the Huthis.

Strikes on Sanaa

In addition to the Saada strike, US military actions in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, have resulted in civilian casualties. On Sunday, Al-Masirah TV reported at least eight deaths and several injuries from strikes in Sanaa. Footage showed destroyed homes, cars, and bloodstained streets, with rescuers recovering human remains. Earlier strikes in the city had also claimed lives, raising concerns about civilian safety amid the ongoing conflict.

US Response and Future Actions

The US military has emphasized its commitment to degrading the Huthi threat, particularly to vital shipping lanes in the region. CENTCOM officials stated they would continue to ratchet up pressure until the objective is met, which remains the restoration of freedom of navigation and American deterrence in the region. The US has previously vowed to maintain pressure on the Huthis until they cease their attacks on international shipping routes.