JIAT Clarifies Allegations Of Coalition Forces Targeting In Zinjibar, Abyan Governorate

The Joint Incidents Assessment Team (JIAT) released a statement addressing allegations against Coalition Forces. It was claimed that on 4 June 2015, these forces targeted the governorate building in Zinjibar, Abyan Governorate. The National Commission to Investigate Alleged Violations to Human Rights in Yemen (NCIAVHR) reported this incident, providing specific coordinates for the location.

JIAT conducted a thorough investigation into the incident. They reviewed various documents such as air tasking orders, mission schedules, and execution procedures. Satellite images and field visit reports were also examined. The assessment included an analysis of the Coalition Forces' rules of engagement and international humanitarian law principles.

Upon reviewing satellite images taken after the alleged date, JIAT specialists found no evidence of aerial targeting at the governorate building. A field visit report from 29 February 2021 revealed damage caused by surface weapons clashes on the building and its fences. However, JIAT could not determine the cause of other damages observed.

Further examination of air missions conducted by Coalition Forces on 4 June 2015 showed no operations took place in Abyan Governorate. Additionally, no air missions were carried out on 3 June or 5 June 2015 in this area. This information was verified through daily mission schedules.

Based on their findings, JIAT concluded that Coalition Forces did not target the governorate building in Zinjibar on 4 June 2015. The absence of air missions during this period supports this conclusion. The investigation results were consistent with all reviewed evidence and documentation.

With inputs from SPA