A recent US airstrike in Yemen has tragically resulted in the death of at least 68 African migrants in a detention facility, according to Houthi-run media. The incident, described as a potential "war crime," raises serious concerns regarding the impact of military operations on civilians in conflict zones.
US Airstrike Claims Lives of African Migrants in Yemen, Sparks Outcry

US Airstrike Claims Lives of African Migrants in Yemen, Sparks Outcry
The tragic bombing of a detention center in Houthi-controlled Yemen has resulted in numerous fatalities and severe injuries among African migrants, drawing international condemnation.
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At least 68 African migrants have reportedly lost their lives in a US airstrike targeting a detention center in Saada, a region held by the Houthi movement in northwestern Yemen. The strike, carried out early on Monday, also left 47 others injured, many of whom are in critical condition, according to the Houthi-controlled media outlet Al Masirah. Graphic footage circulating online has shown the devastating aftermath, with bodies covered under the debris of the destroyed building.
A US defense official confirmed awareness of the casualty claims, stating that Central Command is currently conducting an assessment regarding the incident. This attack follows a wave of US military strikes aimed at Houthi fighters, initiated under President Donald Trump three months prior, which Central Command claims have successfully targeted over 800 positions linked to the group.
The migrants, mostly Ethiopian and Somali nationals, were reportedly detained at the center when it was struck four times in the early hours. Eyewitness accounts describe the scene as tragic and horrific, with one local community leader stating, "We couldn't recognize some of the bodies we saw." He mentioned that the facility was in an open area, far from military installations.
In its response, the Houthi government condemned the strike as a deliberate act of aggression and a "war crime." Meanwhile, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) expressed profound sadness over the loss of life and called upon all parties involved in the conflict to prioritize civilian protection.
Tragically, Yemen has become a primary destination for many migrants fleeing dire conditions in their home countries. Despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis worsened by years of conflict, nearly 60,900 migrants arrived in Yemen in 2024, many of whom find themselves in overcrowded and abusive detention centers.
In the wake of the recent airstrike, the Houthis are reportedly retaliating by targeting US military assets in the region, which illustrates the escalating tensions and the complex nature of the ongoing conflict. The airstrike highlights the dire human toll of military actions in Yemen, where the lingering effects of war continue to harm innocent civilians, especially vulnerable migrant populations seeking safety and stability.
At least 68 African migrants have reportedly lost their lives in a US airstrike targeting a detention center in Saada, a region held by the Houthi movement in northwestern Yemen. The strike, carried out early on Monday, also left 47 others injured, many of whom are in critical condition, according to the Houthi-controlled media outlet Al Masirah. Graphic footage circulating online has shown the devastating aftermath, with bodies covered under the debris of the destroyed building.
A US defense official confirmed awareness of the casualty claims, stating that Central Command is currently conducting an assessment regarding the incident. This attack follows a wave of US military strikes aimed at Houthi fighters, initiated under President Donald Trump three months prior, which Central Command claims have successfully targeted over 800 positions linked to the group.
The migrants, mostly Ethiopian and Somali nationals, were reportedly detained at the center when it was struck four times in the early hours. Eyewitness accounts describe the scene as tragic and horrific, with one local community leader stating, "We couldn't recognize some of the bodies we saw." He mentioned that the facility was in an open area, far from military installations.
In its response, the Houthi government condemned the strike as a deliberate act of aggression and a "war crime." Meanwhile, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) expressed profound sadness over the loss of life and called upon all parties involved in the conflict to prioritize civilian protection.
Tragically, Yemen has become a primary destination for many migrants fleeing dire conditions in their home countries. Despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis worsened by years of conflict, nearly 60,900 migrants arrived in Yemen in 2024, many of whom find themselves in overcrowded and abusive detention centers.
In the wake of the recent airstrike, the Houthis are reportedly retaliating by targeting US military assets in the region, which illustrates the escalating tensions and the complex nature of the ongoing conflict. The airstrike highlights the dire human toll of military actions in Yemen, where the lingering effects of war continue to harm innocent civilians, especially vulnerable migrant populations seeking safety and stability.