Amnesty International Demands War Crime Investigation into Deadly US Airstrike on Yemen Migrant Detention Center

Amnesty International has urged a thorough investigation into a US airstrike on a migrant detention center in Saada, Yemen, which killed at least 68 detainees and injured dozens more in April 2025. The detention facility, previously cleared of military use by international observers, was struck in a deadly attack that Amnesty labels a potential war crime.

The call for accountability highlights concerns over the US administration's approach to airstrikes in Yemen, which Amnesty says has weakened safeguards and disregarded civilian lives. Survivors continue to endure severe physical and psychological trauma, with many lacking access to adequate medical care or financial support.

The Deadly Strike and Its Aftermath

On April 28, 2025, a US airstrike targeted a migrant detention center in Saada, northwestern Yemen, killing at least 68 detainees and injuring 47 others. The facility had been part of a larger prison complex and was regularly inspected by the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations, both of which found no evidence of military use.

Despite the severity of the attack, the US military’s Central Command has yet to publicly release any investigation findings or announce accountability measures, nearly a year after the incident.

Survivors Left Without Support

Amnesty International interviewed six Ethiopian survivors of the strike, revealing ongoing physical and psychological suffering. Five of the men are unable to work due to their injuries, relying heavily on financial aid from relatives. Two have returned to Ethiopia, while four remain in Yemen.

"I have lost hope, and I have nothing left that keeps me going. The US government caused all this, and as a result, I can no longer work and support myself. I want them to provide any type of reparation that will help with our life in any way possible, something that will revive my hope.",—Jirata, survivor

Amnesty’s Critique of US Military Conduct

Nadia Dar, director of Amnesty International USA, criticized the Trump administration’s handling of airstrikes in Yemen, stating it should have raised alarm bells globally. Instead, she says, safeguards were systematically weakened, and civilian lives were recklessly endangered.

Amnesty also highlighted a separate US strike on a school in Minab, Iran, in March 2025, which reportedly killed 156 people, including over 120 children. Investigations into these incidents remain incomplete, with Amnesty urging prompt, transparent, and independent inquiries.

Calls for Accountability and Reparations

Amnesty International demands that the US government conduct thorough investigations into the Yemen and Iran strikes and calls on the US Congress to enhance oversight of military operations. The organization stresses the importance of ensuring reparations for civilians harmed by these attacks.

The ongoing lack of public findings and accountability raises serious concerns about the protection of civilians in conflict zones and the adherence to international humanitarian law.