The Joint Forces Command of the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen has reviewed the the findings of the Joint Incidents Assessment Team (JIAT) regarding an operation conducted by the Coalition on August 9th, 2018 in Sa’daa province in Yemen. 

With regard to the bus incident, the JIAT has concluded that there were mistakes made in abiding by the rules of engagement.  Based upon that, the Command of the Coalition would like to express regret for these mistakes, and offers its condolences and solidarity with the families of the victims and wishes for a speedy recovery for the injured.  

The Coalition accepts the results of the investigation and the conclusions of the JIAT.  As soon as the Coalition formally receives the findings, it will immediately begin the legal process to hold those who committed mistakes in accordance with related rules and regulations. The Coalition will continue to review the rules of engagement, and seek to improve it in ways that can ensure those mistakes are not repeated in accordance with lessons learned from previous operations. 

The Joint Forces Command of the Coalition will task the Joint Committee to assess granting voluntary assistance to the ones affected in Yemen, and communicate with the Legitimate Government in Yemen to acquire identities and names of the ones affected, so that compensations can be provided under regulatory measures.

The Command of the Coalition emphasizes that it will continue to abide by International Humanitarian Law, customary rules and related conventions, while insuring the application of the highest international practices of the rules of engagement, which guarantees the respect of international humanitarian law and achieves the preservation of civilian lives and properties.