Yemen Monitor/Newsroom:
The UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, expressed his deep concern about the humanitarian and economic impacts of the US airstrikes that targeted Ras Issa port and its surroundings, warning of their direct effects on civilians and vital infrastructure in Yemen.
In statements published by his office, Grundberg affirmed that the continued attacks carried out by the Houthi group in the Red Sea, and the retaliatory US airstrikes, seriously undermine efforts to establish peace in Yemen and the region, and increase the possibility of the vital sea lane sliding into a long-term conflict.
The UN Envoy called for an immediate cessation of attacks targeting international navigation in the Red Sea, stressing that the protection of this vital waterway is a collective responsibility that requires a clear commitment from all parties.
Grundberg reiterated his call for restraint and de-escalation, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law and protecting civilians and civilian objects at all times, stressing that military escalation does not serve the interests of Yemenis and hinders any progress towards a comprehensive political settlement.
On April 17, 2025, US forces launched airstrikes targeting Ras Issa oil port, resulting in the death of more than 80 people and the injury of another 150, according to Houthi affiliated media.
The airstrikes came in implementation of orders issued by US President Donald Trump to the army to launch a “major attack” against the Houthi group.
The US Centcom announced in a statement the destruction of Ras Issa oil port, adding that the strikes aim to “undermine the Houthis’ source of economic power.”
Centcom affirmed that the operations “are not intended to harm the Yemeni people,” noting that “the group and Iran must realize that the world will not accept the smuggling of fuel and weapons to a terrorist organization.”
