Iran’s Houthis under attack – Fighters run as forces advance

Military operations against Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen have entered a new phase.

TodayPress TV reports that, according to local media, Yemeni government forces, backed by Saudi Arabian air support, have launched a large-scale offensive against Houthi-controlled areas around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and along the Red Sea coast.

According to reports, the operation, supported by Saudi aircraft, has enabled Yemeni government forces to regain control of several strategic positions around Bab el-Mandeb.

One of the main areas of fighting is the city of Mokha and its surroundings. Reuters and other international sources report that government forces have made rapid advances in the area.

Some footage circulating on social media appears to show Houthis retreating from their positions, with fighters fleeing amid intense fighting.

The Yemeni government and Saudi Arabia say the objective of the operations against the Houthis is to restore control of state institutions and ensure security along strategic Red Sea routes. The Saudi-led coalition has also said that Houthi activities in the region pose a threat to regional and international shipping.

The conflict in Yemen is driven by broader regional rivalry. Iran has provided political and military support to the Houthis for years. The Houthis, meanwhile, control large parts of northern and western Yemen and have continued their confrontation with Saudi Arabia and other regional actors.

The outcome of the current operations could have a significant impact on the balance of power in Yemen. In particular, changes in control over strategic locations such as the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and Mokha could restrict the Houthis’ access to the Red Sea.

At the same time, the Houthis have also announced that they have carried out missile and drone strikes against various targets in Saudi Arabia. However, it appears that the Houthis, one of Iran’s remaining regional strongholds, may be approaching a critical turning point.

Jala Rovshan