The U.S. has intensified airstrikes in Yemen targeting the Houthi movement, causing further civilian casualties and worsening the humanitarian crisis. This situation is exacerbated by significant aid cuts under the Trump administration, making it increasingly difficult for humanitarian organizations to operate. Civilians are suffering immensely amid the violence, and aid groups report a heightened risk of collapse in the humanitarian sector.
The intensified U.S. bombing campaign in Yemen has led to civilian fatalities, exacerbating the already severe humanitarian crisis in one of the poorest nations in the Middle East. This situation follows significant cuts to aid under the Trump administration, as reported by local residents, humanitarian workers, and various rights organizations.
The recent airstrikes, which began over two weeks ago, are aimed at the Houthi movement controlling much of the country. President Trump characterized the strikes as punitive measures against the Houthis for their actions against shipping lines in the Red Sea, citing Israeli military actions in Gaza as a catalyst.
Details regarding the U.S. military efforts emerged when a journalist mistakenly entered a private chat among senior officials discussing the operations. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz noted a significant Houthi casualties while he and others expressed approval. The military operations have predominantly targeted densely populated areas like Sana’a and Hodeidah.
Human rights advocates, including Niku Jafarnia from Human Rights Watch, have highlighted challenges in assessing civilian casualties due to restricted access to bomb sites by the Houthis. Nonetheless, Jafarnia affirmed, “There is no question there are civilian casualties. Residential areas are being hit in the middle of the night…
The ongoing U.S. airstrikes in Yemen are compounding the humanitarian disaster in a nation already devastated by years of conflict. The combination of military action and drastic cuts to aid has left millions at risk, particularly women and children. Aid organizations are struggling to operate amidst these challenges and fear that conditions will worsen, potentially leading to a catastrophic humanitarian situation.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
