US Airstrikes on Ras Isa Oil Port in Yemen Kill 74, Injure Over 170; Deadliest Attack Under Trump Administration

The United States targeted an oil port held by Houthi rebels in Yemen, killing at least 74 people and injuring more than 170 others on Friday, April 18. This marks the single deadliest known attack under the US President Donald Trump administration. 

The US military's Central Command has officially not released any update about the mission in Yemen, which began on March 15. Since the campaign in Yemen began, the American fighter jets have bombed several places, killing civilians and rebel forces in the country.

Visuals From Ras Isa Oil Port in Yemen

The United States has destroyed the Ras Isa oil port in Yemen.

According to the U.S. military, the port was used by the Houthis to receive fuel that supports their military operations.

It was also reported that at least 20 airstrikes were carried out on Yemen’s capital, Sanaa.… pic.twitter.com/8HXrDife7X

— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) April 18, 2025

Meanwhile, Yemen's Houthi rebels strictly control access to areas attacked and don't publish information on the strikes, many of which likely have targeted military and security sites. The attack on Ras Isa oil port shows a massive fire at night, hinting at a major war against the Yemeni Houthis. The Houthis have released graphic footage of those killed in the attack.

Also Read | Yemen's Houthis launched 59 attacks against Israel, US warships since mid-March.

Destruction of Houthi Controlled Ras Isa Fuel Port

The Houthis have continued to benefit economically and militarily from countries and companies that provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. The Iran-backed Houthis use fuel to sustain their… pic.twitter.com/SRiELV4juk

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 17, 2025

"U.S. forces took action to eliminate this source of fuel for the Iran-backed Houthi terrorists and deprive them of illegal revenue that has funded Houthi efforts to terrorize the entire region for over 10 years," Central Command said in a statement. 

Meanwhile, the Iranian-backed Houthis later Friday launched a missile toward Israel that was intercepted, the Israeli military said. Sirens sounded in Tel Aviv and other areas.