Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi militia engaged in intense battles with Saudi-backed forces on Sunday, escalating territorial gains as tensions with Saudi Arabia intensify. The conflict, which resumed in July, saw the Houthis claim responsibility for drone and missile attacks on Riyadh and oil facilities in retaliation for Saudi airstrikes.
Local officials reported fierce ground fighting in al-Wazi’iyah, al-Madaribah, and al-Arah, strategic mountainous areas in southwestern Yemen. According to Abdul Basit al-Baher, an army officer with the Saudi-backed government, Houthi control of these regions could sever the supply route between Taiz and the southern capital of Aden, potentially leading to a siege of Saudi-backed forces in Taiz.
Additional clashes have occurred near Kahboub, a key mountainous territory overlooking the Bab al-Mandab Strait. This vital shipping lane has become critical for Saudi Arabia, particularly after Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz. Two Yemeni officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the significance of these engagements.
Saudi officials have not responded to requests for comment regarding the ongoing conflict. The government has also remained silent on recent airstrikes in Yemen and the Houthi claim of downing a Saudi fighter jet last week.
