Deadly U.S. airstrikes hit key Houthi oil port in Yemen amid escalating conflict

Department of Research, Studies and International News 18-04-2025

A recent wave of U.S. airstrikes on Yemen’s Ras Isa oil port has reportedly resulted in the deaths of 33 people and injuries to at least 80 others, according to media controlled by the Houthi movement. If these figures are confirmed, it would mark one of the highest single-day death tolls since the United States began its intensified military operations in the region in mid-March.

The U.S. Central Command stated that the strikes were aimed at crippling the Houthis’ financial infrastructure by targeting oil-related operations believed to be generating illicit income. According to the statement, the objective was to undermine the group’s capacity to conduct attacks and destabilize the region. U.S. officials emphasized that the operation was not intended to harm Yemeni civilians, who they described as victims of Houthi oppression.

However, the aftermath painted a grim picture. Footage aired by the Houthis’ al-Masirah TV channel showed charred bodies and widespread destruction at the port. The group claimed that among the casualties were rescue workers and civilians caught in the blast and ensuing fires.

This escalation follows a warning issued by the U.S. State Department earlier this month, cautioning against any commercial dealings with Houthi-held ports, including the provisioning of oil or offloading of cargo. The U.S. has labeled the Houthis a terrorist organization and accused them of using such revenues to fund violence across the region.

An investigation by the Associated Press revealed that the current U.S. military campaign under President Donald Trump is broader and more aggressive than previous efforts under President Joe Biden. The new approach includes targeting not just weapons sites but also urban areas and senior rebel figures.

The renewed offensive began after the Houthis threatened to resume attacks on vessels they claim are linked to Israel. Their definition of “Israeli” ships has been vague, raising fears for a wide range of commercial maritime traffic.

Since November 2023, the Houthis have launched attacks on over 100 merchant vessels, sinking two and killing four sailors. While they have also attempted to strike U.S. naval forces, those efforts have so far been unsuccessful.

Analysts believe the campaign is part of a broader U.S. strategy to counter Iran’s growing nuclear ambitions, as the Houthis are widely viewed as Tehran’s regional proxy.