Yemen Lawmaker Sues U.S. Contractors Over Targeted Killings

Anssaf Mayo, a member of Yemen’s Parliament, has initiated a lawsuit in U.S. federal court against three security contractors, alleging their involvement in targeted killings of political opponents in Yemen on behalf of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The lawsuit specifically accuses American military veterans Isaac Gilmore and Dale Comstock of attempting to assassinate Mayo in 2015, an act they have publicly acknowledged as part of a covert program established by the Emirati government. The suit also names Abraham Golan, an Israeli-Hungarian dual citizen with previous residency in the United States.

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The assassination attempt on Mayo occurred during the early stages of Yemen's civil war, which began in 2014. The conflict arose when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of much of northern Yemen, leading to the internationally recognized Yemeni government being forced into exile. In response, Saudi Arabia and the UAE formed a military coalition aimed at combating the Houthis. The UAE has publicly denied financing assassination operations in Yemen, framing its involvement as support for counterterrorism efforts.

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This lawsuit raises significant questions regarding the role of private contractors in foreign military operations and the accountability of state actors in alleged human rights violations. The legal proceedings could potentially expose the extent of the UAE's covert operations in Yemen and the involvement of foreign nationals in these actions.

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In response to the allegations, the Emirati government has maintained that it does not engage in assassination activities, asserting that its operations in Yemen are strictly focused on counterterrorism. The contractors involved have not publicly commented on the specifics of the lawsuit but have previously acknowledged their roles in the controversial operations.

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Human rights advocates have expressed concern over the implications of this lawsuit, highlighting the dangers posed by private military contractors operating without sufficient oversight. Critics argue that such actions undermine the rule of law and contribute to a cycle of violence in conflict zones like Yemen.

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While Mayo's lawsuit presents a clear narrative of targeted killings, the Emirati government’s denial of involvement in assassination operations contrasts sharply with the contractors' admissions. This discrepancy raises questions about the veracity of claims made by both parties and highlights the complexities of accountability in international military engagements.

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“targeted assassinations of perceived political opponents in Yemen,” — Anssaf Mayo, Yemeni Lawmaker

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“The Emirati government hasdeniedthat it financed assassinations in Yemen but has said it supported what it called counterterrorism operations there.” — Official Statement

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This lawsuit marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding the use of private contractors in warfare and the broader implications for human rights in conflict zones.

New York Times