US Airstrikes on Yemeni Oil Port Kill Over 30, Injure 80: A tragic incident unfolded in Yemen’s Ras Isa oil port as US airstrikes reportedly killed more than 30 people and injured around 80, according to Houthi rebels. The strikes, carried out by the US Central Command (CENTCOM), sparked a massive fireball and left behind disturbing scenes of destruction and chaos. The port, located in the Hodeida region of Yemen, is currently under Houthi control.
CENTCOM confirmed the airstrikes but did not acknowledge any casualties. According to their official statement, the action was taken to destroy a fuel source being used by the Iran-backed Houthi group, which they claimed was generating illegal revenue to fund terrorist acts across the region. CENTCOM insisted that the attack was not aimed at Yemeni civilians and expressed support for those desiring peace in the war-torn country.
Meanwhile, the Houthi-controlled al-Masirah TV channel broadcast disturbing visuals of the aftermath, showing dead bodies and wreckage at the port. The rebels said that even paramedics and civilian workers were caught in the bombing. They called the attack “a direct targeting of the entire Yemeni people” and a “flagrant violation” of Yemen’s independence.
The Ras Isa oil terminal is a key fuel facility connected to the Marib region and has remained active under Houthi use despite the ongoing war, even though Yemen’s official oil exports have been halted. The US had recently warned against any foreign support to the Houthis, including shipping oil to ports under their control.
This strike comes just days after Israel launched attacks on similar targets in Yemen. The timing of this US operation reflects a larger campaign launched by the Trump administration in mid-March, which has seen a rapid increase in airstrikes targeting Houthi-controlled infrastructure.
The airstrike is not just part of the US response to the Houthis’ maritime threats but also ties into America’s broader efforts to check Iran’s nuclear ambitions. The Houthis, since late 2023, have targeted over 100 international commercial vessels, with at least two ships sunk and four sailors killed. They’ve even attempted attacks on US warships.
Also Read: Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir Says ‘We Are Different from Hindus’, Revives Two-Nation Theory Again
As this new chapter of violence unfolds, concerns are growing around the humanitarian impact. While the US maintains that it is acting against terrorist threats, the rising civilian casualties tell a different and heartbreaking story.
The US airstrikes on Yemen’s Ras Isa port have sparked global outrage and concern. While the US claims its targets were aimed at weakening terrorism, the tragic loss of over 30 lives—many possibly civilians—paints a grim picture. As the situation intensifies, all eyes remain on Washington’s next move and the response from the international community. Yemen, already devastated by years of war, faces yet another blow to its fragile stability.
FAQs
Why did the US strike Yemen’s oil port?
The US claimed the port was being used by Houthis to fund terrorism and gain illegal revenue.
How many people died in the airstrike?
Houthi rebels claimed 30 deaths and 80 injuries, including paramedics and civilian workers.
Did the US admit to civilian casualties?
No, CENTCOM confirmed the strike but denied targeting civilians or acknowledging any casualties.
Why is Ras Isa oil port important?
It’s a key oil facility used by the Houthis despite Yemen’s halted official oil exports.
What triggered this wave of attacks?
The US said it was part of a wider mission to stop Houthi maritime threats and pressure Iran over nuclear activities.
