The US military airstrikes on Yemen's capital, Sana'a, and multiple Yemeni governorates have resulted in several civilian deaths and injuries. The provisions of the UN Charter and the principles of international law must be upheld, especially regarding using force and protecting civilians.
At least 30 people were killed and numerous others injured when the US Air Force launched dozens of airstrikes targeting Houthi military sites and civilian areas across the governorates of Sana'a, Hajjah, Dhamar, Al Bayda, and Taiz on Saturday night and Sunday morning.
In the northern Saada Governorate, one of the deadliest airstrikes hit the Qahza area, killing ten people—including a woman and four children—and injuring over 20 more. Additionally, US aircraft targeted a power plant in the town of Dahyan, causing a widespread blackout.
Beyond breaching international law, these military operations undermine global stability by disregarding state sovereignty and enabling arbitrary use of force
Yemen's Ministry of Health and Environment reported on Sunday that US airstrikes on the governorates of Sana'a, Saada, and Al Bayda had killed 31 civilians and injured 101 more.
US President Donald Trump justified the strikes, claiming Houthis had attacked US ships and disrupted international shipping and trade in the Red Sea. The president ordered a "decisive and forceful military action," further adding that the US would use "overwhelming and deadly force" to deter further attacks on the freedom of navigation.
However, the use of military force in this instance is a clear violation of the UN Charter and fundamental principles of international law. Article (2/4) of the Charter prohibits the use or threat of force in international relations, except in two circumstances: self-defence under Article 51, which requires a direct and imminent "armed attack," and military action authorised by the UN Security Council under Chapter VII to maintain international peace and security.
The United States has not provided evidence that its airstrikes fall under either category. The claim of self-defence is insufficient under international law, as the US has not demonstrated the existence of a direct and imminent "armed attack" on its forces or territory. Furthermore, no Security Council resolution has authorised these airstrikes, seriously violating Article 2(4) of the UN Charter.
Beyond breaching international law, these military operations undermine global stability by disregarding state sovereignty and enabling arbitrary use of force. Urgent international action is needed to enforce legal norms, prevent unlawful military interventions, and hold those responsible for civilian casualties accountable.
The civilian deaths resulting from US airstrikes raise serious concerns about violations of international humanitarian law. US forces failed to take adequate precautions to reduce harm to civilians, such as verifying the military nature of targets, selecting methods, timing to minimise casualties, and issuing warning when feasible.
The fact that the airstrikes occurred late at night and in the early morning––when most civilians were at home and particularly vulnerable––suggests a failure to implement effective preventative measures. Given that the airstrikes targeted not only military sites but also civilian infrastructure, concerns arise regarding the weapons used and whether US forces adhered to the principles of distinction and proportionality.
The US has provided no credible justification for these strikes, nor has it demonstrated an "imminent threat" that warranted such a response. Official statements have not identified any direct or immediate threat to US interests, nor have they provided evidence that these attacks yielded concrete military benefits. This suggests that less destructive alternatives could have been pursued to safeguard civilians and avoid the extensive loss of life and property.
Instead of seeking diplomatic solutions or addressing the root causes of the crisis, the US has escalated violence through unlawful military action. The Houthi group has explicitly linked its attacks in the Red Sea to Israel's ongoing war on Gaza, underscoring the need for diplomatic engagement. Rather than pursuing de-escalation, the US has opted for military escalation, reinforcing its support for Israel as it continues its genocidal campaign in Gaza. This policy of double standards exacerbates regional instability, fuels humanitarian crises, and prolongs conflicts.
Since 7 October 2023, the consequences of reckless military action have become abundantly clear: unlawful uses of force result in massive civilian casualties and widespread destruction. Reducing tensions, not escalating them, is the fastest way to protect civilian lives and restore regional stability.
The US must take all necessary measures to protect civilians and adhere strictly to the UN Charter and international humanitarian law in any military operation. Every civilian casualty should be subject to an independent, transparent investigation, and those responsible must be held accountable. Attacks on vital infrastructure, including water and energy supplies, must cease immediately.
Furthermore, the US must end its complicity in Israel's crimes, including halting the supply of weapons and political support that enable Israel to continue committing genocide in Gaza. Compliance with international law, coupled with an end to unconditional support for Israel, is essential to achieving justice, protecting civilian lives, and preventing further escalation.
The international community must take collective action to pressure Israel to halt its genocidal campaign in Gaza and end its illegal occupation of Palestinian territories. Defusing the regional crisis requires accountability mechanisms to prevent impunity, ensuring that those responsible for crimes against civilians are prosecuted. Upholding international law and seeking justice for victims is not only a moral obligation but also a necessary step toward regional stability and long-term peace.
