Aden -- Amnesty International has called for an independent investigation into a U.S. airstrike that targeted a migrant detention center in Yemen’s Saada province on April 28, 2025, warning that the attack may constitute a war crime under international law.

In a statement released on October 29, the human rights organization described the strike as an indiscriminate attack that killed and injured dozens of African migrants held by Houthi authorities for irregular immigration status. 

The facility, located in northwestern Yemen, was reportedly known to house Ethiopian migrants attempting to reach Saudi Arabia through conflict-affected areas.

The airstrike was part of “Operation Rough Rider,” a broader U.S. military campaign launched in response to Houthi interference with Red Sea shipping during the Israel-Hamas conflict. 

Amnesty’s investigation, based on satellite imagery, eyewitness accounts, and survivor interviews, concluded that the strike inflicted catastrophic civilian harm and violated the principles of distinction and proportionality required under the laws of armed conflict.

Kristine Beckerle, Amnesty’s deputy regional director for the Middle East and North Africa, stated:

“It is unconscionable that the U.S. would target a compound previously struck by the Saudi-led coalition, knowing its civilian use. The scale of harm demands accountability.”

The organization urged U.S. authorities to conduct a prompt, transparent, and impartial investigation into the incident and to disclose the legal and intelligence basis for the strike. Amnesty also called on the United Nations and other international bodies to monitor the inquiry and ensure justice for the victims.

The U.S. Central Command has not publicly commented on the specific details of the Saada strike but said it takes all reports of civilian casualties seriously. The April attack follows a similar strike on the same compound in 2022 by the Saudi-led coalition, which also resulted in significant civilian deaths.

Human rights advocates warn that repeated targeting of known civilian facilities undermines international humanitarian norms and sets a dangerous precedent for future military operations in conflict zones.