Houthi fighters are seeking to capture strategic highlands in Yemen in an effort to strengthen their position around the Bab al-Mandab Strait and potentially cut off the Red Sea coast from areas controlled by Saudi-backed government forces.
The latest advance has expanded the broader Middle East conflict into another area of Yemen, following the Houthis’ rapid seizure of key positions along the Red Sea coast earlier this month.
The Houthi movement has been advancing toward strategic mountainous areas in Taiz and Lahij provinces. Fighting has been reported around the Al-Wazi’iyah district in Taiz and the Ras al-Ara area along the coast.
Control of the strategic heights would provide the Houthis with greater protection for their forces around the Bab al-Mandab Strait and could allow them to establish additional fronts. The positions would also help secure areas captured during their recent advance, including territory around Dhubab and Perim Island.
The Houthis have controlled Yemen’s capital since 2014 and recently expanded their presence along the country’s Red Sea coastline after overrunning positions held by internationally recognised government forces based in the south.
The latest developments have also prompted discussions over possible US military action against the Houthis.
US and Yemeni officials held discussions on the group’s recent advances and the security situation around the Red Sea. Yemen’s internationally recognised government sought greater support in its confrontation with the Houthis, although no direct commitment of military assistance was reported.
US policy toward the Houthis has reportedly shifted several times amid pressure to respond militarily and concerns over opening another front in the wider regional conflict.
Saudi Arabia has also sought greater US involvement against the Houthis as the group continues its territorial advances.
US military planners had reportedly prepared potential targets for air strikes against the group, but the planned operation was ultimately called off. The development came after discussions over the risks and potential consequences of launching another military campaign in Yemen.
The Houthis have also indicated that they would not target US interests, a position that has influenced discussions over possible US military action.
