Yemen forces advance near Bab al-Mandeb amid escalating conflict
Yemeni government forces, backed by Saudi Arabia, have claimed significant gains near the strategic Bab al-Mandeb strait, seizing key positions from the Iran-aligned Houthis. The offensive, part of the government's "Dawn of Yemen" operation, aims to retake all Houthi-held territories, including the capital Sanaa, which the group has controlled since 2014. The Houthis have responded with attacks on Saudi airports, oil infrastructure, and military sites, including King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Abha International Airport in Asir Province.
The fighting has intensified along Yemen's western coast, with government forces capturing several strategic locations in Taiz governorate, including the al-Manzara, al-Ashari, and Dhiban mountains. The Houthis have disputed these claims, describing them as "fabricated heroics." The battle for Mocha, a key port city, is seen as crucial for the next phase of the conflict, as it could serve as a staging point for further advances against the Houthis.
The escalation has exacerbated Yemen's humanitarian crisis, with over 184,000 people displaced and at least 959 killed since the war resumed. The World Health Organization warns that the fighting is pushing the already fragile health system to its breaking point. Internationally, Saudi Arabia's allies, including Turkiye and Pakistan, have agreed to deploy military forces under the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, while the United States is providing intelligence support to Riyadh.
Saudi-backed forces have also targeted Houthi positions in Hodeidah governorate, striking weapons depots and facilities used for explosive-laden boats and naval mines. The Houthis have simultaneously conducted dozens of strikes on Saudi targets, including military bases and refineries. The Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation reported minor injuries from attacks on Jazan and Najran international airports.