Yemen government claims advances near Bab al-Mandeb
The government says its forces seized Dhubab district and nearby positions, while regional officials prepare to discuss defence and a possible political approach to the Houthis.
Yemen’s internationally recognised government says its forces have seized Dhubab district and positions near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait in an operation against the Houthis. The reported gains have not been independently verified.
The military said Homeland Shield Forces and Giants Brigades advanced with air cover, targeting Houthi positions and movements. An army source cited by Yemen’s news agency Saba said the forces seized positions and cut roads and supply routes leading to the strait.
Saba also reported Houthi casualties and damaged or destroyed military equipment, attributing those claims to the army source. Al Jazeera said it could not independently verify the reported seizure, casualties or equipment losses.
The government announced the operation on Sunday to retake territory held by the Houthis. Yemen’s war began in 2014, after Houthi forces seized Sanaa.
Separately, Pakistani, Saudi and Turkish officials are due to meet in Riyadh to discuss regional defence. Pakistan’s foreign minister said the talks would address a proposal for political engagement with the Houthis as an alternative to military action. No agreement has been reported.
