The United Nations Secretary-General has expressed deep concern over the airstrikes conducted by the United States on 17 and 18 April in and around Yemen’s port of Ra’s Isa. These strikes have reportedly led to numerous civilian casualties, including the injury of five humanitarian workers. Humanitarian assistance has been mobilised to support local health facilities. The Secretary-General is also alarmed by reports of significant damage to the port’s infrastructure and the potential for oil leaks into the Red Sea.

Diplomatic sources indicate that a Turkish-operated fuel tanker was caught in a U.S. strike on Yemen’s Ras Isa oil terminal, which is controlled by Houthi forces. While the vessel sustained minor shrapnel damage, it remains operational. However, Houthi forces have blocked the ship, along with others, from leaving the port. The crew, consisting of four Turkish nationals and 22 Indian nationals, is reported to be safe. Turkish authorities are working to secure the release of the vessel and are closely monitoring the situation.

Houthi-affiliated media reported on Friday that at least 80 people, including five paramedics, were killed in the U.S. airstrikes targeting the Ras Isa oil port in Al Hudaydah Governorate, western Yemen. More than 150 people have been injured.

Al Jazeera