Yemen Government Launches Strikes Against Houthi Forces in Mocha

Yemeni government forces have conducted air strikes against Houthi fighters along the Red Sea coast, signalling a significant escalation in military activity. This action comes after the Houthis gained full control of the strategic shoreline, raising concerns about security in the region, particularly around the Bab al-Mandeb strait.

According to a report from Yemen's state-run news agency, Saba, the air strikes targeted vehicles and personnel associated with the Houthi militia, described as being backed by the Iranian regime. Major Majed Abdullah al-Nazili, a spokesperson for the government forces, confirmed that strikes were carried out on the Mocha-Dhubab road, located approximately 11 kilometres from the city of Mocha. The military operation is part of what the government is referring to as a “battle for survival.”

The Houthi movement captured the city of Mocha on Thursday and subsequently took control of the nearby Mayun Island on Friday, securing a strategic position along the Bab al-Mandeb strait, which is a crucial passageway for global oil shipping.

The United Nations reported that nearly 46,000 individuals have been displaced in Yemen due to the recent flare-up in violence, with projections suggesting the number could be higher. Abdusattor Esoev, chief of the International Organization for Migration in the country, noted that the fall of Mocha, which was an area of strong UN presence, has hampered aid agencies' access to those in need.

In a related development, Saudi Arabia temporarily shut down its East-West oil pipeline, a significant conduit that spans 1,200 kilometres across the Arabian Peninsula, following drone attacks believed to have originated from Iraq. The specific responsibility for these attacks has yet to be claimed by any group, although Iraq's parliament speaker has condemned the use of Iraqi territory for such actions as unacceptable and inconsistent with the country's foreign policy.

Reports have emerged that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made inquiries to United States President Donald Trump regarding air strikes on the Houthis but was met with refusal. Trump stated during his recent visit to Dublin that the Houthis have communicated a desire for non-intervention from the US, asserting that “they don’t want to fight with us.”

The situation remains tense as the head of the US Central Command is currently in Saudi Arabia for discussions concerning the ongoing conflict and Houthi advancements. The international community is watching closely as the dynamics in Yemen continue to deepen.