A recent wave of airstrikes in Yemen has intensified an already dire humanitarian situation, with civilian areas struck in and around the capital, Sana’a, leading to significant casualties and infrastructure damage, local and global reports said. Multiple families were killed in US and Israeli air raids, prompting widespread concern from human rights organizations and international observers.
Late last month, a US airstrike reportedly destroyed four homes in the Thaqban neighborhood near Sana’a, killing at least 11 civilians. Videos shared online showed residents fleeing in panic, while funeral notices circulated naming entire families lost in the blasts.
Airwars, a London-based monitoring group, documented fatalities from three families in the incident, challenging US claims that strikes have only targeted Houthi military assets. The US Department of Defense previously stated it had launched over 1,000 strikes against Houthi targets since mid-March, though US Central Command reported a lower figure of 800 strikes, stating operations were guided by intelligence to minimize civilian harm.
However, residents and humanitarian groups argue that the strikes have repeatedly hit civilian infrastructure, including homes and markets.
One of the deadliest attacks occurred at the Ras Isa oil terminal, where a fuel truck driver was reportedly killed. In another incident, 12 people were killed and 34 injured when a market in Farwah was struck.
Civilians describe severe disruptions to daily life, compounded by economic sanctions that have targeted Yemeni banks and restricted fuel access.
The Israeli military also launched strikes this month on Sana’a’s airport and power infrastructure, citing Houthi attacks on Tel Aviv. The escalation comes despite the US announcing a halt to its air campaign, citing a ceasefire agreement with the Houthis, brokered through Omani mediators.
Analysts at the European Council on Foreign Relations suggest the air campaign has failed to achieve strategic objectives, while allowing the Houthis to consolidate power domestically. Humanitarian organizations warn that continued sanctions and strikes are deepening Yemen’s crisis, where 17 million people face food insecurity and over 4 million remain displaced.
