JIAT Clarifies Allegations Against Coalition Forces In Sharfat Garahah Village, Sa'ada

The Joint Incidents Assessment Team (JIAT) released a statement concerning an allegation against the Coalition Forces. It was claimed that on 15 April 2020, a house in Sharfat Garahah village, located in the Razih directorate of Sa'ada governorate, was targeted with an artillery shell. The incident reportedly occurred at 5:30 pm, resulting in injuries to four civilians and partial damage to the house.

JIAT conducted a thorough investigation into the incident. They reviewed various documents, including the firing log of the Coalition Surface Forces and satellite images. Additionally, they examined the Coalition Forces' rules of engagement and relevant international humanitarian law principles. After assessing all available evidence, JIAT determined that Sharfat Garahah village is situated in the western part of Razih directorate.

Upon examining the surface missions executed by the Coalition Forces on the date in question, JIAT found no record of any firing using fire support weapons in Sharfat Garahah village. This assessment was based on a detailed review of their operational logs for that day.

Furthermore, JIAT searched open sources for any information supporting the claim of an artillery shell targeting a house in Sharfat Garahah village. Their search yielded no evidence or reports corroborating such an incident on 15 April 2020.

Based on their comprehensive investigation, JIAT concluded that the Coalition Forces did not target a house using a mortar shell in Sharfat Garahah village as alleged. The findings indicate no involvement of Coalition Forces in this reported incident.

The statement underscores JIAT's commitment to transparency and accuracy in assessing incidents involving military operations. Their findings aim to clarify misunderstandings and ensure accountability within international conflict zones.

With inputs from SPA