Saudi-led Coalition Launches Campaign Against Houthi Rebels in Yemen

BEIRUT — Yemen’s government and a Saudi-led coalition have initiated a military campaign aimed at dislodging Iran-backed Houthi rebels who recently seized significant areas along Yemen’s Red Sea coast. The operation has already reclaimed territory overlooking a key waterway, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. In a televised address, Rashad al-Alimi, head of the Yemeni government’s Presidential Leadership Council, announced the military operation to extend state authority across the nation. He stated that the operation would continue until the country is liberated from what he termed 'terrorist militias.' This campaign follows a recent Houthi offensive that led to the collapse of Saudi-backed government forces and the loss of territory along the Red Sea coast, including the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial maritime chokepoint. The Houthis have also gained ground inland, effectively besieging Taiz, Yemen’s third-largest city. On Sunday, the Houthis claimed to have seized Turbah, a garrison town critical for supply routes between Taiz and Aden, a key port. Yemen’s military spokesman, Majed al-Nuzaily, reported that 'Operation Yemen Dawn' has conducted over 1,100 attacks against Houthi positions, with pro-government forces regaining control of Mokha and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. However, these claims were denied by the Houthis. Maj. Gen. Turki al-Maliki, a spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition, stated that 100 warplanes participated in a raid that destroyed 324 'high-value targets' and provided continuous air support for Yemeni ground forces. The Saudi-led coalition, formed in 2015, includes nine nations, such as the United Arab Emirates and Egypt. The current fighting represents the most significant escalation since a ceasefire between the Houthis, Yemen’s government, and Saudi Arabia broke down in July 2022. The Houthis, known as Ansar Allah, control much of northern Yemen and have received support from Iran, complicating the conflict. The Yemeni government, despite international recognition, lacks a strong foothold in the country. Following the ceasefire breakdown, the Houthis implemented a blockade on Saudi shipping and targeted Saudi oil infrastructure. The recent offensive has raised concerns about energy market stability. Previous attempts by the Yemeni and Saudi governments to counter the Houthis have been met with challenges, and experts suggest that the current government lacks the necessary resources and cohesion to achieve its objectives. Saudi Arabia is reportedly seeking regional defense partnerships, having reached out to Turkey and Pakistan for support. Discussions are ongoing regarding mutual defense agreements, although participation is expected to be limited to border protection and air defense against Houthi attacks. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that the U.S. intends to uphold its defense agreements with Saudi Arabia but did not provide specifics on U.S. involvement in the current campaign.