On Thursday, the United States bombed Yemen’s Ras Isa oil port in Hodeida province. The strike killed 74 people and injured over 100 others. U.S. officials claimed the port helped fuel Houthi operations. This marked a sharp rise in a military campaign that began on March 15. The Houthis, who are backed by Iran, shared disturbing videos showing fires lighting up the night sky.
Ras Isa: A Target with Strategic Value
The Ras Isa port links to an oil pipeline in Marib. Marib, a region rich in resources, remains under Yemen’s government. Though exports from the port stopped due to war, the Houthis still used it for fuel imports.
U.S. Central Command described the port as a “key supply point.” Officials believed the fuel supported Houthi attacks across the Red Sea. As a result, the U.S. decided to destroy the facility.
Houthis Call It a Civilian Attack
The Houthis quickly condemned the airstrike. They claimed the port had served the people of Yemen for decades.
“This site helped our citizens,” said a Houthi spokesperson. “It was not a military base.”
Yemeni analyst Mohammed al-Basha said the strike caused a shift in how the Houthis react. In the past, they stayed silent after major hits. For example, they ignored a recent strike that reportedly killed 70 fighters. Now, however, they openly mourn the loss.
Pentagon Avoids Civilian Death Questions
When reporters asked about the civilian toll, the Pentagon declined to comment. They also did not answer follow-up questions.
This silence led to criticism from human rights groups. Many believe the strike may have broken international law. According to these groups, hitting a civilian facility can count as a war crime.
Houthis Fire Back at Israel
Hours later, the Houthis launched a missile toward Israel. Israeli defense forces shot it down before it caused harm. This act appeared to be a direct response to the U.S. strike.
Tensions quickly rose. The United States warned it would punish anyone aiding Houthi forces. This included companies and countries involved in fuel shipments.
Chinese Satellite Firm Under Scrutiny
American officials accused Chang Guang Satellite Technology Co. Ltd., a Chinese firm, of helping the Houthis. They claimed the company supplied satellite data used in attacks on U.S. and allied ships.
Tammy Bruce from the U.S. State Department said, “This company supported attacks on American forces.” She added that the firm had already faced sanctions for aiding Russia’s Wagner Group.
Despite the claims, the company did not issue any public response. Meanwhile, the Chinese government remained silent.
Iran’s Role and the Road to Rome
Although Iran denies full control over the Houthis, the U.S. believes Tehran plays a key role. American officials said the airstrike aimed to weaken Iran’s influence in the region.
At the same time, U.S. and Iranian leaders plan to meet in Rome on Saturday. They will continue talks about Iran’s nuclear program. By striking now, the U.S. hopes to gain leverage during the talks.
Growing Fears Inside Yemen
Doctors and aid workers inside Yemen raised concerns. Many worry that the airstrike could create a fuel crisis.
Dr. Lina Ahmed, a physician in Hodeida, explained, “Without fuel, our machines stop. We can’t move patients. We can’t even power our lights.”
In addition, the United Nations warned that more strikes may delay food and aid. Millions of Yemenis already rely on outside help. Any further disruption could prove deadly.
What This Means for Global Security
This attack highlights the risk of ongoing war in the region. The U.S. wants to stop Houthi missile strikes. But each airstrike also increases anti-American sentiment.
The Houthis, who support Hamas, have launched many attacks in the Red Sea. They often target ships linked to Israel. As a result, global trade has suffered. Insurance rates for shipping in the region have also gone up. By targeting supply routes, the U.S. hopes to cut off the Houthis’ reach. However, experts fear the group will find new ways to attack.
The U.S. strike on Ras Isa has already sparked new tensions. With 74 lives lost and over 100 people hurt, the impact is clear. The Houthis vow revenge. Meanwhile, global powers prepare for another round of talks in Rome. Aid workers urge caution, fearing more harm to Yemen’s people. As the conflict deepens, the world watches closely.