Houthi rebels claim a U.S. airstrike in Yemen killed 68 African migrants at a detention facility, raising serious humanitarian concerns as the conflict in the region intensifies.
Quick Takes
- The alleged U.S. airstrike reportedly killed at least 68 people and injured 47 at a migrant detention center in Yemen’s Saada Governorate
- Approximately 100 African migrants were housed at the facility when it was reportedly struck
- The U.S. military’s Central Command has been conducting an “intense and sustained campaign” against Houthi targets since March 15
- U.S. officials have not yet provided comment on the alleged migrant facility strike
- This incident comes amid ongoing Houthi attacks that began in October 2023 following Israeli military operations in Gaza
Reported Strike on Migrant Facility
According to Houthi officials, an American airstrike hit a detention center housing African migrants in Yemen’s Saada Governorate, resulting in at least 68 deaths and 47 injuries. The detention facility, located in the city of Saada, reportedly housed over 100 African migrants at the time of the attack. This incident represents one of the most severe humanitarian impacts reported since the escalation of U.S. military operations against Houthi targets in Yemen.
The U.S. military has not provided immediate comment regarding the alleged strike on the migrant facility. This lack of confirmation comes at a critical time when international scrutiny of military operations in Yemen has intensified, particularly regarding civilian casualties and humanitarian concerns. The region has long been a transit point for African migrants seeking economic opportunities in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states.
Every night for the past 6 weeks the U.S air force carries out heavy air strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen.
These strikes have killed dozens of senior political and military Houthi figures as well as destroyed missile launching capabilities.
This is footage from tonight. pic.twitter.com/vGym9KzoXH
— James J. Marlow (@James_J_Marlow) April 27, 2025
Escalating U.S. Military Operations
The U.S. military’s Central Command has been conducting what they describe as an “intense and sustained campaign” targeting Houthi forces since March 15. This military campaign has reportedly struck over 800 targets and resulted in the deaths of numerous Houthi fighters and leaders. The operations represent a significant intensification of U.S. involvement in the Yemen conflict, which was notably expanded under President Donald Trump’s administration in response to Houthi attacks on shipping lanes.
Central Command has reported a substantial reduction in Houthi ballistic missile launches and drone attacks as a result of their operations. Military officials claim the strikes have significantly impacted the Houthi’s operational capabilities and hampered their ability to generate revenue. Despite these reported successes, the reports on civilian casualties raise serious questions about the humanitarian costs of the campaign and its targeting protocols.
Regional Context and Ongoing Conflict
The Houthis began their attacks in October 2023, following the start of Israeli military operations in Gaza. U.S. officials maintain that Iran continues to provide support to the Houthi forces, a claim that has been central to the justification for ongoing military operations in the region. The stated U.S. objective remains restoring freedom of navigation and establishing effective deterrence against attacks on international shipping routes through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
The situation remains fluid, with further developments expected as both international observers and military officials assess the impact of the alleged strike. Humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned about the vulnerability of migrant populations in Yemen, who often find themselves caught between warring factions with limited protection or means of escape. This incident highlights the complex and tragic consequences of military operations in regions with significant dense civilian and vulnerable migrant populations.
