Sanaa [Yemen]– In one of the deadliest recent military operations, the United States carried out airstrikes on Yemen’s Ras Isa oil port, resulting in at least 74 deaths and 171 injuries, according to a report by Al Jazeera.
The attack, which took place on Thursday, targeted the fuel infrastructure controlled by the Iran-backed Houthi group. A statement from the US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the strikes, explaining that the operation was designed to cut off the Houthis’ fuel and revenue sources, which are crucial for financing their operations.
“Today, US forces took action to eliminate this source of fuel for the Iran-backed Houthi terrorists,” CENTCOM posted on social media. “The objective of these strikes was to degrade the economic source of power of the Houthis.”
Initial figures released by the health office in Hodeidah reported 38 deaths and over 100 injuries. However, updated numbers from the group’s Health Ministry spokesman Anees Alasbah confirmed a much higher death toll of 74.
International Pressure Mounts: Canada Calls for Gaza Ceasefire
Meanwhile, tensions in the Middle East remain high as Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney urged for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. During a televised debate ahead of Canada’s general election, Carney emphasized the need for humanitarian aid and the end of the ongoing blockade.
“We need to work with our international partners [to exert] maximum pressure for an immediate ceasefire,” he said.
On X (formerly Twitter), Carney called for the release of all hostages, increased humanitarian aid, and a lasting two-state solution to the conflict.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Gaza
As the Israel-Gaza conflict enters its 18th month, Gaza’s Health Ministry reported 51,065 Palestinian deaths and 116,505 injuries. The Gaza Government Media Office raised the death toll further to over 61,700, noting that thousands remain missing beneath the rubble.
In Israel, at least 1,139 people were killed during the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, with over 200 taken hostage, according to Al Jazeera.
