The Associated Press (AP) reported on 13/8 that the Pentagon submitted an assessment to the US Congress concerning strikes against Houthi forces in Yemen in 2025, as part of its annual report on civilian casualties.

The unclassified assessment focused on three airstrikes carried out in 4/2025, targeting areas within and around the Houthi-controlled capital Sanaa, as well as Ras Isa port. These attacks resulted in a total of 153 civilian deaths and 243 injuries.

The deadliest strike targeted the Ras Isa oil port, killing 80 people and injuring 173. The attack generated massive fireballs and incinerated oil tankers.

US Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees US military operations in the Middle East, stated at the time that the attack "was not intended to harm the Yemeni people". Its primary objective was to disrupt fuel and financial supplies to Houthi forces.

According to the Pentagon's assessment, providing compensation to the victims of these three airstrikes was "not appropriate", though specific reasons were not disclosed.

This approach is one of several options available when US military operations result in civilian deaths or injuries. However, it is not a legal requirement, nor does it constitute an admission of wrongdoing.

Following a mistaken strike in Afghanistan in 2021 that killed 10 people, including 7 children, the US Department of Defense had previously pledged to pay compensation to the victims' families.

Medical personnel carry a body after a US airstrike on Ras Isa port in Yemen in 4/2025. *Photo: AP*

This information comes amid growing concerns about civilian casualties from Washington's military operations, including from US lawmakers. These concerns follow an incident at the start of the Middle East conflict where a US missile struck an Iranian elementary school, killing 168 people.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth appears to have downsized an office dedicated to civilian harm mitigation.

Pham Giang (According to AP, Al Jazeera, Euronews)