Investigation Finds No Coalition Role In Alleged Sa'ada Waterpoint Attack

A statement was issued by the Joint Incidents Assessment Team (JIAT) regarding an alleged mortar shell attack on a waterpoint in Al-Thiraa village, Shida directorate of Sa'ada governorate on 26 May 2020. The claim involved a seven-year-old girl who was injured when a mortar shell reportedly hit the waterpoint at around 10:00 am, destroying it. The incident occurred approximately 200 meters from her family's house.

JIAT thoroughly vetted the incident, examining all relevant documents. This included the firing log of the Coalition Surface Forces, satellite images, and Coalition Forces rules of engagement. They also reviewed provisions and principles of International Humanitarian Law and its customary rules. After assessing the evidence, JIAT determined that Al-Thiraa village is situated in the northern part of Shida directorate in Sa'ada governorate.

By studying surface missions conducted by the Coalition Forces on the date of the claim, JIAT found no evidence of any firing using fire support weapons in Al-Thiraa village on 26 May 2020. This assessment led to their conclusion that Coalition Forces did not target a waterpoint with a mortar shell in Al-Thiraa village as claimed.

In light of these findings, JIAT concluded that there was no mortar shell attack by Coalition Forces on the waterpoint in Al-Thiraa village on 26 May 2020. The evidence reviewed did not support the claim made regarding this incident.

With inputs from SPA