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Government-backed Yemeni forces have launched a major counteroffensive against Houthi rebels, declaring their intention to recapture the capital city of Sanaa from the Iran-aligned group. The military campaign marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, with intense fighting spreading across multiple provinces including al-Bayda and al-Jawf, which serves as a critical route toward the capital.
Combat operations intensified on Monday, involving air strikes, drone attacks, and ground battles across several regions. Government officials claimed territorial advances in multiple provinces, while the Houthis asserted they successfully repelled attacks. The escalation represents the most serious fighting since a United Nations-brokered ceasefire in 2022 brought relative calm to the war-torn nation. Both sides have accused each other of inflicting civilian casualties, with Saudi Arabia reporting attacks on its southern border regions.
The humanitarian toll has been severe, with the World Health Organization documenting nearly 900 deaths and injuries since fighting resumed on Thursday. Approximately 21,000 people have been displaced from Taiz province alone. Officials predict casualty figures will continue rising as additional reports emerge from affected areas, particularly regarding military operations in al-Jawf province.
The renewed violence follows the collapse of diplomatic efforts toward a political settlement, complicated by broader regional tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Control of key waterways and territorial holdings remain central to the conflict’s strategic importance.
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Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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