Saudi coalition recaptures key Yemen areas from Houthi rebels
The Saudi-led coalition in Yemen has retaken several key areas around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait from Houthi rebels, according to Yemeni officials. The offensive, launched on Monday, included air support and recaptured the town of Dhubab, along with Bab and Hadeid. These areas are crucial as the strait is a vital shipping route connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.
The Houthis, backed by Iran, claimed responsibility for attacks on Saudi oil facilities, airports, and military bases, including King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and an oil refinery in Rabigh. Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, the Houthis' military spokesman, stated that ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones were used in these attacks.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged that Saudi Arabia has the right to defend itself against Houthi attacks. The U.S. has provided support to the Saudi-led coalition, including intelligence sharing and target identification. The U.S. Embassy in Riyadh also warned citizens about potential drone or missile attacks.
Pakistan and Turkey have agreed to deploy military forces to Saudi Arabia under a defense pact, following attacks on Saudi cities and civilian facilities. The joint statement did not specify troop numbers or a deployment timetable. The offensive comes after the Houthis captured the key town of Turbah on Sunday, which sits on a main road linking Taiz and Aden.