Comprehensive Military Operation Launched by Yemeni Government Against Houthis
The Saudi-backed Yemeni government has launched a major military campaign to retake all areas controlled by the Iran-backed Houthis.
Yemen's internationally recognized, Saudi-backed government has announced the launch of a comprehensive military operation to retake all regions of the country controlled by the Houthis.
Launch of the Military Operation
It was reported that the armed forces loyal to the Yemeni government will continue their offensive until the country is completely liberated from the Houthis. Yemeni Presidential Council Chairman Rashad al-Alimi announced this decision in a televised speech, while a military military spokesman called on the Houthis to lay down their arms.
Recent Houthi Advances
The Houthis have held the capital Sanaa and much of the northwest since 2014. Launching a surprise offensive last month, the movement captured the strategic Bab el-Mandeb strait and about 150 kilometers of the Red Sea coast within weeks.
Cluster and Drone Attacks
Immediately after the Yemeni government announced its move, the Houthis announced that they had launched ballistic missile and drone attacks on Riyadh and facilities in Saudi Arabia's Khurais region in response to the airstrikes and missile attacks in Yemen.
Regional Impacts of the Clashes
Over the past 48 hours, the Houthis have made gains against government forces on strategic hills near Taiz and advanced along the last remaining road between the city and Aden. According to the World Food Programme, the escalation in fighting has led to the displacement of tens of thousands of people, while three-quarters of families in parts of Yemen face hunger.