<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Houthis launched new forces into an offensive to take the southwestern highlands of Yemen, a move that could threaten the capital of the internationally recognized government if successful.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">After their recent offensive that seized the entire Red Sea coast and secured the Bab el Mandeb Strait, the Houthis have redirected their forces to the strategic southwest highlands, specifically the Kahboub Mountains, which are primarily located in the governorates of Taiz and Lahij. The mountainous terrain is known for its challenging conditions.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Despite the rapid collapse of internationally recognized Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) troops along the Red Sea coast, the situation in the Kahboub Mountains is different, and a similar collapse is currently considered unlikely. PLC-controlled territories have begun widespread mobilization, including the involvement of militarily capable southern fighters. Many of the PLC’s most capable units, including the Southern Giants Brigades, are participating in the fighting.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">As the Houthis concentrate their forces in the highlands, the PLC has also mobilized its troops. The PLC is fighting with increased urgency, as losing the highlands could jeopardize the entire government. The highlands are critical for supply and transportation links between government-controlled areas.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Saudi air support, which was previously inadequate during the Red Sea coast collapse, has reportedly intensified, according to both anti-Houthi sources and the Houthis themselves.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Mohammed al Basha, a Yemen analyst and former Yemeni official, stated that the Houthis are facing strong resistance from local tribes.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">One significant concern is an offensive to encircle the city of Taiz, Yemen's third-largest city, located within the highlands. Taiz has been under siege for much of the civil war.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The outcome of the battle for the highlands may influence U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision on whether to intervene militarily to assist the Saudis. If the Houthis capture the highlands and threaten Aden, the PLC’s capital, Trump may view the PLC as a lost cause. Conversely, if the PLC can hold its ground and push back the Houthis, the U.S. may reassess its support for the government.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Despite some positive developments, the situation remains precarious for the PLC. The Kahboub Mountains represent the last major geographical barrier before Aden.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Houthis’ rapid advance earlier this month was facilitated by light infantry shock troops that breached highlands further north, allowing reinforcements to surge through the gap. Houthi mechanized forces advanced quickly, leading to a rout of PLC forces.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">If the Houthis capture the Kahboub Mountains, they would have a clear path for further maneuvers toward the command center of the anti-Houthi coalition.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Even if the Houthis do not launch an offensive toward Aden, holding the highlands would secure their gains along the coast and protect them from shelling and surveillance from the mountains. The PLC, already struggling defensively, would find it challenging to regain the initiative.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Despite recent losses, the PLC maintains a sense of confidence. On Monday, PLC Prime Minister Shaya Mohsen al Zindani stated that the fight against the Houthis is “not over,” and that they will reclaim lost positions, including the Bab el Mandeb Strait.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">“However harsh the developments on the ground may be, they do not signify the end of the battle, nor a change in its objective. The Yemeni state, its institutions, its armed forces, and the national forces understand the nature of this phase and are working to reorganize their ranks, enhance their readiness, and reclaim these positions and every inch of national territory,” he said.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">According to the International Organization for Migration, thousands have been killed and wounded since the war reignited in July, and approximately 130,000 people have been displaced across seven governorates due to recent fighting.</p>