A devastating US airstrike kills African migrants in Yemen, according to Houthi-run media. The strike hit a detention center in Saada province, an area controlled by Houthi forces. Reports state that at least 68 African migrants died and 47 suffered serious injuries. Graphic footage from Al Masirah TV showed bodies trapped under rubble while rescuers searched for survivors.
The United States Central Command (Centcom) has not directly addressed this incident. However, it recently confirmed over 800 strikes against Houthi targets since March 15. These strikes followed President Donald Trump’s order to intensify attacks. Centcom claims the operations have eliminated many Houthi fighters and leaders. In contrast, Houthi media reports far greater civilian casualties.
The detention center, holding about 115 African migrants, was bombed early Monday morning. Survivors called out for help, with some using Amharic, Ethiopia’s national language. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) expressed deep sorrow after learning about the tragedy. Although IOM had no operations at this site, it pledged to monitor the situation closely and provide support if needed.
Migrants from the Horn of Africa continue to risk everything to reach Yemen. Many hope to find work in Saudi Arabia. However, many get trapped in Yemen, detained in harsh conditions. Facilities like the one destroyed in Saada often face accusations of overcrowding, abuse, and poor sanitation.
This airstrike recalls a deadly attack in 2022, where another detention center near Saada was bombed, killing 66 people. US forces have stepped up attacks on Houthi-controlled infrastructure in recent months. They targeted sites like the Ras Isa oil terminal to cut off the Houthis’ funding sources. Critics argue these actions worsen civilian suffering without achieving clear military goals.
President Trump’s administration recently reclassified the Houthis as a “Foreign Terrorist Organization.” This reversed President Biden’s earlier decision aimed at easing humanitarian aid deliveries. As a result, tensions have increased, and aid groups report greater difficulties operating inside Yemen.
Meanwhile, Houthi fighters continue attacking commercial vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. They claim to act in support of Palestinians during the Gaza conflict. However, most attacks target unrelated ships, causing international concern. Western forces have responded with naval patrols and airstrikes to protect shipping routes.
The plight of African migrants in Yemen remains critical. In 2024 alone, about 60,900 migrants, mostly from Ethiopia and Somalia, arrived in the country. Smugglers exploit their desperation, and many end up detained in unsafe conditions. Rights groups regularly condemn the abuse and mistreatment migrants face, yet little action follows.
The fact that a US airstrike kills African migrants in Yemen at a known detention facility has drawn global outrage. Legal experts warn that targeting civilian centers could qualify as a war crime under international law. The IOM and other agencies have called for a full investigation and demanded better protection for civilians.
As the war drags on, Yemen’s humanitarian crisis deepens. Over 19 million people need urgent aid, and millions remain displaced. Tragedies like the Saada bombing highlight the urgent need for a ceasefire and diplomatic resolution. Until then, innocent civilians and vulnerable migrants continue to pay the highest price.
