Rights Reports Document Thousands of Civilian Casualties in Yemen Since 2015

Rights Reports Document Thousands of Civilian Casualties in Yemen Since 2015
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United Nations and human rights reports have documented thousands of civilian casualties in Yemen since the Saudi-led coalition began military operations in March 2015, raising renewed concerns about civilian protection and accountability for alleged violations of international humanitarian law.

A 2018 UN expert report recorded at least 16,706 civilians killed or injured between March 2015 and June 2018, warning that the actual toll could be higher. The report attributed most documented civilian casualties during that period to coalition airstrikes. Human Rights Watch also documented attacks affecting homes, markets, healthcare facilities, schools and religious sites, calling for independent investigations and accountability.

Meanwhile, the UN Security Council condemned Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, including missile strikes in 2018 and a drone attack in 2023 that killed and injured personnel from Bahraini forces stationed near the Saudi border.

The reports have renewed debate over the consistency of international responses to violations by different parties. Humanitarian law requires all sides to protect civilians, avoid indiscriminate or disproportionate attacks, and ensure credible investigations into alleged abuses.