Yemen fighting intensifies near Bab el-Mandeb

Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces have retaken several strategic areas near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait as Houthi forces expand attacks and fighting intensifies across western Yemen.

Government forces retake key areas

Forces allied with Yemen’s internationally recognised government have recaptured Dhubab, Bab and Hadeid near the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait, according to Yemeni officials. Witnesses reported seeing government tanks and fighters entering the towns.

Offensive backed by Saudi air power

The advance came as part of a major offensive launched under Saudi-led coalition air cover. The coalition said more than 100 fighter jets were supporting government forces as they seek to regain territory controlled by the Houthis.

Bab el-Mandeb remains crucial

The Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and is an important route for international shipping and energy supplies. Control of the surrounding territory has therefore become a major strategic objective for both sides.

Houthis advance around Taiz

The government gains came after Houthi fighters seized Turbah and other areas around Taiz. Turbah lies on a major road connecting Taiz with Aden, the interim seat of Yemen’s internationally recognised government.

Taiz faces renewed pressure

The Houthi advance has tightened pressure around Taiz, Yemen’s third-largest city. Government forces still control the city, but Houthi fighters have maintained positions around several approaches, with fighting continuing in the surrounding areas.

Civilians flee fighting

Footage from the area showed military vehicles and fighters near Taiz, while families were seen gathering supplies and leaving areas affected by the fighting. The renewed violence is adding to the humanitarian pressures facing civilians.

Houthis claim attacks on Saudi Arabia

The Houthis said they launched missiles and drones against Saudi targets, including oil facilities, airports and military sites. The group claimed attacks on locations including King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and an oil refinery in Rabigh.

Saudi Arabia expands military campaign

The Saudi-led coalition has intensified air operations against Houthi positions following the group’s territorial advances. The escalation represents the most significant increase in fighting since a ceasefire brought a period of relative calm to the conflict.

Four-year ceasefire breaks down

The renewed fighting follows a roughly four-year period without the previous level of large-scale hostilities. The latest escalation has reopened several major fronts across Yemen, particularly around Taiz and the western coast.

Strategic stakes rise

The fighting around Bab el-Mandeb has wider regional implications because the waterway is a major international shipping corridor. Any prolonged disruption could increase risks for commercial vessels travelling between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

Yemen conflict enters new phase

The latest offensive marks a significant escalation in Yemen’s long-running conflict, with government forces seeking to reverse recent Houthi gains while the rebels continue launching attacks against Saudi targets.