On January 21, local time, the Saudi-led multinational coalition airstrikes a prison in Yemen’s Houthi-controlled Saada province, causing a large number of casualties.
As of the night of the 21st local time, according to the statistics of the local health department, the attack had killed at least 77 people and injured at least 190 people, some of whom were seriously injured, and most of the dead and injured were detainees. (Headquarters reporter Zhang Yuchen)
RELATED: UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemns coalition airstrikes in Yemen’s Saada province
On January 21, local time, UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a statement condemning an earlier airstrike on a prison in Yemen’s Saada province by the multinational coalition led by Saudi Arabia.
According to reports, as of the evening of the 21st local time, the air strikes had killed at least 77 people and injured 146 people, some of whom were seriously injured, and most of the dead and injured were detainees. In addition, the coalition airstrikes also disrupted Internet services across Yemen.
In a statement, Guterres reminded that international humanitarian law prohibits attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. He also reminded all parties of their obligation under international humanitarian law to ensure that civilians are protected from the dangers posed by military action, while respecting the principles of proportionality, distinction and precaution.
Guterres called for a prompt, effective and transparent investigation into the incident to ensure accountability.
Guterres also called for a quick de-escalation and urged all parties to engage with his envoy to advance the political process and reach a negotiated solution to end the conflict. The statement also referred to the severe humanitarian crisis in Yemen, urging donors and all other stakeholders to provide adequate funding, access and other support for humanitarian relief efforts. (CCTV reporter Xu Dezhi)
At least 77 dead, 190 injured in airstrike on a prison in Yemen’s Saada province
Responsible editor: Lin Fangyu