Key facts
- The Pentagon confirmed 153 civilian deaths in Yemen from U.S. operations in 2025.
- The Pentagon confirmed 243 civilian injuries in Yemen from U.S. operations in 2025.
- Three U.S. strikes targeting Houthi militants caused the majority of civilian casualties.
- Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree reported missile and drone strikes on military sites.
- Houthi strikes targeted Marib and Mocha.
- Houthi strikes resulted in dozens of casualties.
- Saudi forces were among the casualties of Houthi strikes.
- Houthi attacks followed previous strikes on Mocha and government soldiers.
The Pentagon has confirmed to Congress that U.S. military operations conducted in Yemen during 2025 led to the deaths of 153 civilians and injuries to 243 others. These casualties were predominantly a result of three specific strikes aimed at Houthi militants. The confirmation comes amidst an ongoing escalation of hostilities in the region.
In parallel, Yahya Saree, the Houthi military spokesman, stated that Houthi forces carried out missile and drone attacks targeting military sites in Marib and Mocha. According to Saree, these strikes resulted in dozens of casualties, with fatalities including Saudi forces. This development follows previous Houthi actions against Mocha and government soldiers, indicating a broader pattern of intensified conflict.
The dual reports of significant casualties from both U.S. operations and Houthi attacks underscore the volatile security situation in Yemen. The Pentagon's acknowledgment of civilian deaths in its operations raises questions about targeting protocols and the impact of counter-terrorism efforts on the civilian population. Meanwhile, the Houthi claims of striking military targets and inflicting casualties on Saudi forces suggest a widening scope of their operations and a direct challenge to regional powers.