Explosive allegations have emerged against Saudi border guards, accusing them of a horrifying mass killing spree targeting Ethiopians attempting to cross into Saudi Arabia from Yemen. Human Rights Watch (HRW) has conducted an extensive investigation, documenting witness accounts, satellite imagery, and expert analysis. This chilling report suggests that these systematic attacks may potentially amount to crimes against humanity.
The HRW investigation, backed by satellite imaging, survivor testimonials, and forensic analysis of wounds, paints a gruesome picture of escalating violence against those attempting to cross the border. Witnesses recount mass fatalities, including women and children, resulting from shelling and close-range shootings. Shockingly, the report even describes instances where survivors were given the grim choice of which limb to be shot in.
Nadia Hardman, lead researcher at HRW, expressed her shock at the findings, labeling them as “obscene.” She highlighted the use of explosive weapons against women and children, a disturbing and unprecedented escalation of violence.
These allegations have arisen from an area largely inaccessible to foreign observers, heightening concerns about human rights violations along the Saudi-Yemen border. HRW’s report is the most comprehensive documentation of these events yet.
The alleged incidents include Saudi border forces shelling groups of people who were arrested, detained, and expelled as they attempted to re-enter Yemen. Even more horrifying are claims that survivors were coerced into committing acts of sexual violence under threat of execution. Furthermore, survivors were reportedly forced to choose the limb they preferred to be shot in before enduring close-range gunshots.
While Saudi authorities have vehemently denied such allegations in the past, this latest investigation adds to a growing body of evidence of grave human rights violations at the Saudi-Yemen border. HRW’s findings are underscored by the accounts of survivors, corroborating satellite images, and the expertise of forensic analysts.
The alleged killings have taken place along a significant migration route used by traffickers and smugglers. The campaign of violence has drawn international condemnation and led to calls for stronger support and funding for women’s football in Australia, where interest lags behind other popular sports.
HRW’s report serves as a harrowing reminder of the urgent need to address these alleged atrocities and ensure that the rights and safety of migrants are respected and protected, regardless of their circumstances.
Keywords: Saudi border guards, Ethiopians, Yemen, Human Rights Watch, mass killings, crimes against humanity, violence, survivor testimonials, international condemnation.
