A tragic attack on a migrant facility in Yemen has left at least 68 African migrants dead, with ongoing disputes regarding responsibility between the Houthi militia and the U.S. military.
Dozens of Migrants Killed in Yemen Attack Blamed on U.S. Airstrike
Dozens of Migrants Killed in Yemen Attack Blamed on U.S. Airstrike
Iran-Backed Houthis Report Losses in Yemen as Strikes Intensify Amid Ongoing Conflict
By Ismaeel Naar
Reporting from Dubai, United Arab Emirates
April 28, 2025, 9:11 a.m. ET — A devastating attack took place on a migrant facility in the Houthi-controlled territory of northern Yemen, resulting in the deaths of dozens of individuals, reported by the Iran-backed militia and humanitarian officials on Monday. The Houthi group accused U.S. forces of conducting the strike, claiming it targeted what they termed a migrant center in Saada, which reportedly killed at least 68 African migrants, though the U.S. military has yet to respond to these allegations.
This incident came shortly after a declaration from the U.S. military indicating more than 800 strikes were executed since mid-March as part of an offensive campaign against the Houthi militia. While the U.S. claims to have focused on strategic military targets, they have not acknowledged any civilian deaths connected to their operations.
Houthi representatives stated that upwards of 100 civilians had died due to recent strikes and condemned the latest assault as a “heinous crime against African migrants.” The blame game continues as both parties provide conflicting narratives regarding civilian casualties in Yemen, fueling the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.
Graphic footage released on the Houthi-controlled al-Masirah news channel displayed chaotic scenes in Saada, where bodies lay amidst debris. Alongside the deceased, reports indicate that at least 40 migrants suffered injuries during the attack, according to aid officials who spoke anonymously to ensure their safety.
The perilous journey of countless African migrants across the strait separating Africa and the Arabian Peninsula has remained ongoing, with the International Organization for Migration estimating nearly 60,900 arrivals in Yemen within just the year 2024. The Houthis have also expanded their military activities, including strikes against international targets, asserting solidarity with Palestinians.
Since March 15, U.S. bombing efforts against the Houthis have escalated under President Trump’s orders, reflecting a commitment to maintain military pressure until the Houthi threat is mitigated.
Ismaeel Naar is an international reporter for The Times, covering the Gulf states. He is based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
