In a devastating escalation of military operations, US airstrikes on Yemen’s Ras Isa oil port have reportedly killed at least 80 people, marking one of the deadliest attacks in the region by US forces since they intensified their campaign against the Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The strikes, which occurred on April 17, 2025, were aimed at crippling the Houthis' source of fuel and revenue, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM).
The Houthi-controlled health ministry reported that the airstrikes not only resulted in significant casualties but also left around 150 individuals wounded, including numerous port workers and paramedics. Mohammed al-Attab, a correspondent for Al Jazeera, noted that the air raids struck while many were at work, catching them by surprise.
In a statement, CENTCOM emphasized the objective of the strikes, stating, "Today, US forces took action to eliminate this source of fuel for the Iran-backed Houthi terrorists. The objective of these strikes was to degrade the economic source of power of the Houthis." However, the attacks drew widespread condemnation across Yemen due to the heavy civilian toll and the strategic importance of Ras Isa, which handles a significant portion of the country’s imports and humanitarian aid.
Following the US strikes, the Houthis retaliated by launching missile attacks targeting sites in Israel and two US aircraft carriers, with Israel confirming that it had intercepted one missile launched from Yemen. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree warned that the ongoing US military actions would lead to increased confrontations, stating, "The American military buildup and continued aggression against our country will only lead to more counterattacks and attack operations."
The escalating conflict has raised alarms internationally, especially as the US prepares to resume negotiations with Iran concerning its nuclear program. Mohammed Albasha, a US-based consultant, remarked, "The military actions in Yemen are clearly sending a signal to Tehran." This comes in the wake of the Houthis’ increased military activities, which they claim are in solidarity with the Palestinian people amid ongoing tensions in Gaza.
Since mid-March, the US has intensified its air campaign against Houthi targets, which has included oil refineries and missile sites. Reports indicate that the US military's operations have cost nearly $1 billion over three weeks, yet the impact on the Houthis' capabilities remains limited, with many of their key military assets still intact.
As casualties continue to mount, the humanitarian situation in Yemen remains dire. The United Nations has described the Ras Isa port as "critical and irreplaceable infrastructure" for the country, which is already suffering from one of the worst humanitarian crises globally. Approximately 70 percent of Yemen’s imports and 80 percent of its humanitarian assistance rely on the ports of Ras Isa, Hodeidah, and as-Salif.
In a related statement, Hamas condemned the US airstrikes, labeling them a war crime and a violation of Yemeni sovereignty. They expressed solidarity with the Yemeni people, emphasizing that the attacks represent a continuation of aggressive American policies in the region.
The situation continues to evolve rapidly, with reports indicating that the Houthis have executed over 100 attacks against vessels they claim are linked to Israel since November 2023. This aggressive posture is part of a broader strategy by the Houthis to assert their influence and retaliate against perceived aggressions from the US and its allies.
As video footage shared by Houthi-affiliated media shows the aftermath of the strikes—flames lighting up the night sky and survivors recounting their harrowing experiences—the international community watches closely, grappling with the implications of this conflict that has already claimed countless lives.
In summary, the US airstrikes on Yemen’s Ras Isa oil port have not only resulted in tragic loss of life but have also exacerbated an already complex geopolitical crisis, with the potential to spark further military confrontations in the region. The Houthis’ vow to continue their military operations against US and Israeli forces underscores the escalating tensions and the challenges ahead for peace efforts in the Middle East.
