Saudi Arabia Intensifies Airstrikes Against Houthi Positions in Yemen
Saudi Arabia has intensified airstrikes against Houthi forces in Yemen amid fierce battles near the Bab al-Mandab Strait and cross-border missile threats.
Saudi Arabia has significantly intensified its airstrikes against Houthi positions in Yemen, following the militant group's recent push toward strategic areas near the Bab al-Mandab Strait and ongoing drone and missile launches targeting the kingdom. Houthi officials reported that the Saudi air force launched 28 strikes within a 24-hour period, warning that Riyadh's actions would not go unanswered.
Clashes Near the Bab al-Mandab Strait
According to Reuters, Saudi Arabia has carried out hundreds of strikes in recent days against Houthi concentrations in the Kahbub mountain range, which spans between the Taiz and Lahij provinces in southwestern Yemen. The strikes aim to halt the group's attempts to seize strategic ridges, consolidate positions along the Red Sea coast, and sever government-backed forces from southern strongholds.
Fighting remains heavily concentrated around the fringes of Al-Waziyah district and the Ras al-Arah area along the Indian Ocean coast. Military sources indicate that control over the Kahbub mountains will likely determine whether the Houthis can cement their territorial gains or if pro-government forces can mount a counter-offensive.
Regional Escalation and US Stance
"The response will be on the battlefield," warned senior Houthi political bureau member Mohammed al-Farah, as tensions continue to mount across the region.
Amid the escalating violence, reports have emerged of fuel shortages in the Houthi-controlled capital of Sanaa, with the group allegedly prioritizing fuel reserves for military operations. Meanwhile, a powerful explosion struck a crowded qat market in Ras al-Arah, with local sources divided over whether it stemmed from a Houthi ballistic missile misfire or a coalition airstrike.
Against this backdrop, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly requested direct US military assistance against the Houthis. While President Donald Trump initially ordered the Pentagon to draft strike options, Washington ultimately limited its support to intelligence-sharing and target data provision.
