Pro-government Yemeni forces, supported by Saudi Arabia, have announced that they have secured the Bab al-Mandab Strait at the southern end of the Red Sea. This development marks a key phase of a new offensive against the Iran-backed Houthi movement. The Yemeni military reported that its National Shield, Giants Brigades, and Tihama Resistance units captured the Red Sea port city of Mokha on Monday afternoon with assistance from Saudi air strikes.
However, contrasting accounts from unnamed Yemeni government and military sources suggest that forces have only reached Mokha's outskirts, not fully taken the city. Reuters and AFP reported these claims, which differ from the official statements. The Houthi movement did not comment on Mokha but claimed attacks on Riyadh's international airport and other Saudi sites.
The Saudi-led coalition has been providing round-the-clock air support, destroying 324 high-value targets since the offensive began. The coalition's efforts have been backed by allies Turkey and Pakistan, who agreed to rapidly deploy forces under their Mecca defence pact. This development comes as the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned continued Houthi cross-border attacks on Saudi Arabia.
Yemeni forces reportedly seized Dhubab airport, 45 km south of the strait, and besieged Houthi fighters in the nearby town. However, Houthi-run media denied any government advances in Dhubab, contesting the claims of capture. Military sources cited by AFP said they had taken control of Dhubab airfield and cut the road linking Dhubab district to the Bab al-Mandab area.
The situation remains volatile, with Saudi officials condemning the Houthi attacks and urging UN Security Council permanent members to back Yemen's government. Four government sources told Reuters that Yemeni forces had reached Mokha's outskirts late on Monday and that Houthi fighters were retreating. The developments have raised concerns over the sharp escalation in fighting.
The conflict has drawn international attention, with the United Nations Secretary-General expressing deep concern over the escalation. The situation in Yemen remains a critical concern for the international community, with efforts to broker a peaceful resolution ongoing. The Yemeni government and its allies continue to push for a decisive victory against the Houthi movement.
The control of the Bab al-Mandab Strait and the capture of Mokha would be significant strategic gains for the Yemeni government and its allies. The strait is a critical waterway for international shipping, and its control has been a key objective for the Saudi-led coalition. The developments will likely have far-reaching implications for the conflict and the region.
Key points
- Yemeni forces claim control of Bab al-Mandab Strait and capture of Mokha amid ongoing Red Sea offensive.
- Contrasting accounts suggest forces may have only reached Mokha's outskirts.
- International community expresses concern over escalation in fighting.
