In a dramatic escalation of the U.S. military campaign in Yemen, an overnight airstrike by American forces on the Ras Isa oil port—controlled by Iran-backed Houthi rebels, left at least 74 people dead and over 170 injured, according to Houthi officials. The attack marks the first time the U.S. has struck a major Houthi-run energy facility since President Donald Trump resumed military operations against the group last month.
Graphic footage aired on the Houthis’ al-Masirah TV channel showed charred tanker trucks, devastated infrastructure, and bodies scattered across the site. “It targets a vital civilian facility that has served the Yemeni people for decades,” the Houthis said, condemning the assault as “completely unjustified aggression.”
Port’s Strategic Role and Civilian Impact
Ras Isa, located in the Hodeida governorate along the Red Sea, previously served as a hub for oil exports. After the Houthis seized control of much of northern Yemen, the port was repurposed to receive gasoline, diesel, and liquefied petroleum gas shipments crucial for powering daily life in their territory.
Wim Zwijnenburg of the Dutch peace group PAX confirmed, based on satellite imagery, that “at least three fuel storage tanks had been destroyed” and oil had visibly leaked into the sea. Analysts say the airstrike could further cripple fuel supplies in Houthi-controlled regions.
US Justifies Strike Amid Broader Anti-Houthi Operation
U.S. Central Command stated that the strike aimed “to eliminate this source of fuel for the Iran-backed Houthi terrorists and deprive them of illegal revenue that has funded Houthi efforts to terrorize the entire region for over 10 years.” A U.S. official added anonymously, “This attack sends a message to those who continue supplying fuel to the Houthis despite sanctions.”
The strike came just before U.S.-Iran negotiations resumed in Rome over Iran’s advancing nuclear program, an issue closely tied to the Houthis’ regional influence and their attacks on Israel and Red Sea shipping.
Continued Violence and Civilian Risk
Hours after the airstrike, the Houthis launched a missile at Israel, which was intercepted, and claimed to have shot down another U.S. MQ-9 drone. The Israeli military reported sirens in Tel Aviv and nearby regions following the missile launch.
Meanwhile, U.S. airstrikes reportedly continued in al-Jawf, Sanaa, and Sadaa governorates. Independent verification of casualty numbers remains challenging due to restricted access and Houthi control over affected areas.
Trump’s Campaign More Aggressive Than Biden’s, Experts Say
Observers note that Trump’s campaign against the Houthis is notably more aggressive than that of his predecessor. Luca Nevola of the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project noted, “The Ras Isa strike is the deadliest known attack in the new campaign.” Mohammed al-Basha, a Yemen expert, added, “While Houthis often exaggerate civilian tolls, this attack seems to be the first mass-casualty event they openly acknowledged.”
U.S. Blames Chinese Satellite Company for Aiding Houthis
The U.S. also accused Chinese satellite provider Chang Guang Satellite Technology Co. Ltd. of helping Houthis with intelligence to target American vessels. “Beijing’s support of the satellite company contradicts their claims of being peace supporters,” said State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce.
China denied involvement. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian responded, “I am not familiar with the situation you mentioned,” adding that China is pushing for regional peace, not conflict.
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