Saudi border guards have been accused of extensively firing on Ethiopian migrants attempting to cross into Saudi Arabia from Yemen, resulting in the deaths of hundreds, according to a report by Human Rights Watch. The report highlights a significant increase in abuses along the dangerous route from the Horn of Africa to Saudi Arabia, where a large number of Ethiopians live and work. The allegations were deemed “unfounded” by a Saudi government source. One 20-year-old woman from Ethiopia’s Oromia region, interviewed by HRW, described how Saudi border guards opened fire on a group of migrants who had just been released from custody. The woman said, “They fired on us like rain. When I remember, I cry.” Another survivor recalled witnessing a man pleading for help after losing both his legs, only to be left behind as the others ran for their lives.
The report includes a statement from HRW researcher Nadia Hardman, who asserts that Saudi officials have been killing migrants and asylum seekers along this remote border area without the knowledge of the rest of the world. She criticizes Saudi Arabia’s efforts to improve its image through investments in golf, football clubs, and entertainment events, arguing that these endeavors should not divert attention from the horrendous crimes being committed. The United States has expressed concern over the report and has called for a thorough and transparent investigation. A State Department spokesperson stated, “We urge the Saudi authorities to undertake a thorough and transparent investigation and also to meet their obligations under international law.” However, a Saudi government source has dismissed the allegations as unreliable.
Human Rights Watch has been documenting abuses against Ethiopian migrants in Saudi Arabia and Yemen for nearly a decade, but the recent killings seem to be more widespread and systematic, potentially amounting to crimes against humanity. United Nations experts reported similar concerns last year regarding cross-border artillery shelling and small-arms fire by Saudi security forces, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 430 migrants during the first four months of 2022. The repatriation of Ethiopians from Saudi Arabia began in March of that year, and it was estimated that around 100,000 citizens would be sent home over several months.
The HRW report states that there has been no response from Saudi officials to the letters sent by the organization. However, the Houthi rebels, who control northern Yemen, alleged that border guards intentionally killed immigrants and Yemenis, in response to HRW’s letter. The report also mentions that migrants claimed Houthi forces collaborated with people smugglers and would extort them or detain them until they could pay an “exit fee.” The Houthis denied these accusations, categorizing people smugglers as “criminals.”
Yemen’s war, which began in 2015, has led to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises with millions relying on aid. Most of the abuses documented by HRW occurred during a truce that started in April 2022 and has mostly held despite officially expiring last October. The HRW report is based on interviews with 38 Ethiopian migrants, as well as satellite imagery, videos, and photos gathered from various sources. It describes numerous incidents involving explosive weapons, including mortar attacks. Survivors recounted close-range attacks where Saudi border guards asked Ethiopians which part of their body they preferred to be shot. The report further reveals scenes of horror, with men, women, and children severely injured, dismembered, or already dead.
Human Rights Watch has called on Riyadh to cease using lethal force against migrants and asylum seekers and has urged the United Nations to investigate the alleged killings.
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