Yemen’s Saudi-backed government has launched a military operation aimed at pushing back Houthi rebels and retaking territory under their control. President Rashad al-Alimi announced the operation on Sunday, saying government forces would work to restore state control across the country. The Houthis currently control around one-third of Yemen’s territory, including areas where nearly 80% of the country’s population lives. Despite controlling a smaller share of the country geographically, the group therefore maintains significant influence over major population centres and cities. Houthis expand control along Western Coast The Houthis have captured several strategic hills along Yemen’s western coast in the past 48 hours, according to the report. Their control of these positions could potentially cut off the area from government-held territory and make it harder for government forces to regain control. The Houthis have also increased pressure around Taiz, Yemen’s third-largest city. Thousands of government-backed fighters are deployed in the area, while any further escalation could worsen conditions for civilians. Yemeni journalist and political analyst Mohammed Al-Qadi said control of the surrounding hills gives the Houthis a stronger defensive position. According to him, the positions could help the group counter any government offensive towards the coast and make it more difficult for government forces to retake the area. Houthis strengthen position near Bab al-Mandeb The Houthis’ recent advances also extend to the area around the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a key maritime route linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Around 12% of the world’s oil is estimated to pass through the route. The group has reportedly captured the Greater Hanish and Lesser Hanish islands in the southern Red Sea. The islands are located around 160 km north of the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Control of these positions could strengthen the Houthis’ presence near one of the world’s important shipping routes between Europe and Asia. Any further escalation around Bab al-Mandeb could therefore have consequences for international shipping, particularly as tensions are already high around the Strait of Hormuz. Yemen faces risk of renewed large-scale war The conflict between Yemen’s government and the Houthis has continued for around 12 years. Saudi Arabia backs the Yemeni government, while Iran supports the Houthis. A ceasefire in 2022 significantly reduced large-scale fighting. However, the Houthis’ recent advances have raised concerns about a renewed escalation and the possibility of a broader conflict. Yemen is already facing a severe humanitarian crisis. Years of war have damaged infrastructure and displaced large numbers of people. The World Food Programme has said that in some areas, three out of four families do not have enough food. A prolonged military campaign could therefore further worsen hunger, displacement and other humanitarian problems. Saudi Arabia may deploy more than 100,000 troops Saudi Arabia is also reportedly preparing for possible military action against the Houthis. According to a Reuters report cited in the report, Riyadh could deploy more than 100,000 troops. The reported objective would be to push the Houthis away from the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and secure the vital maritime trade route. Saudi Arabia is considering two possible military strategies: Limited operation: Launch a restricted offensive around Bab al-Mandeb to secure the shipping route. Broader operation: Conduct simultaneous operations in several parts of Yemen, including Al-Bayda, Marib, Taiz and Al-Jawf. Post navigation SC Judge calls denial of voting rights arbitrary:Says no excuse can justify it, citizen without vote is meaningless
