JIAT Issues Statement Clarifying Allegations Against Coalition Forces Targeting Sarwah Hospital In Marib

The Joint Incidents Assessment Team (JIAT) addressed claims that Coalition Forces targeted Sarwah rural hospital in Harib, Marib governorate, on 24 April 2015. The allegation was part of the 11th periodic report by the National Commission to Investigate Alleged Violations to Human Rights in Yemen (NCIAVHR), released in July 2023. The report stated that after Al-Houthi forces took over Sarwah villages, they occupied public institutions, including the hospital.

According to the NCIAVHR report, Al-Houthi elements converted Sarwah rural hospital into a military base after tampering with its contents. This led to the Coalition allegedly targeting the hospital on 24 April 2015, resulting in its complete destruction. JIAT received coordinates for the alleged location and began an investigation into these claims.

JIAT conducted a thorough review of all relevant documents, such as air tasking orders and mission reports. They also examined satellite images and visited operation centers and field units. Additionally, JIAT consulted the National Information Center's website for details on health facilities in Yemen and reviewed Coalition Forces' No Strike List (NSL) and rules of engagement.

Upon assessment, JIAT confirmed that Sarwah rural hospital is situated in Sarwah village within Marib governorate and is listed on the Coalition Forces' NSL. Satellite images taken after the alleged incident showed no damage from aerial attacks to the hospital's main building or annexes.

JIAT analyzed air missions conducted by Coalition Forces on 24 April 2015, finding no missions were carried out over Sarwah village on that date. They extended their review to include missions from one day before and one day after the claimed incident. On both 23 April and 25 April 2015, no air missions were conducted over Sarwah village.

Based on this comprehensive investigation, JIAT concluded that Coalition Forces did not target Sarwah rural hospital on 24 April 2015. The findings contradict claims made in the NCIAVHR report regarding the destruction of the hospital by aerial targeting.

With inputs from SPA