Hezbollah vows ‘appropriate’ response to Israeli attacks

In April 2025, according to a Pentagon review, US airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen resulted in the deaths of 153 civilians and injuries to 243 others. The assessment, submitted to Congress as part of the Pentagon's annual civilian casualty report, determined that the strikes "more likely than not" caused civilian harm.

The review analyzed three strikes carried out during the US military campaign against the Houthis. A Pentagon official, speaking anonymously, stated that the department would submit the report in the coming months, but no further details were provided.

The review focused on strikes targeting Houthi-controlled positions near Sanaa, Yemen's rebel-held capital, and the Ras Isa port. The deadliest attack, the Ras Isa strike, killed 80 people and injured 171 others. This operation led to large fires and explosions at the port, with tanker trucks left burning in the aftermath. The Houthis' al-Masirah satellite news channel broadcast footage from the scene, showing bodies at the site.

US Central Command stated that the strike was not intended to harm civilians, claiming it aimed to cut off fuel supplies and revenue for the Houthis. However, the Pentagon review did not consider condolence payments appropriate for the strikes, citing that they are not legally required and do not equate to an admission of wrongdoing.

The issue of civilian casualties has gained further attention following a US missile strike on an Iranian primary school earlier this year, which reportedly killed up to 168 people. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reportedly reduced the size of a Pentagon office dedicated to reducing civilian harm. The US initiated strikes against the Houthis in 2023 following the group's attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea, claiming the actions were in support of Palestinians during Israel's conflict with Hamas.