Yemen frontlines heat up as Saudi-backed forces challenge Houthis - analysis
As the Yemeni government forces push against the Houthis, attacks on Saudi Arabia are raising the stakes and forcing Riyadh to consider its next military moves.
In the past 48 hours, Yemen has witnessed intense movement and clashes along various frontlines as the government attempts to push back the Iranian-backed Houthis and weaken the group. Meanwhile, the Houthis have launched attacks against Saudi Arabia following years of conflict. Saudi Arabia, which has supported Yemen for over a decade, has backed the Yemeni government's efforts against the Houthis.
According to Major General Turki Al-Maliki, spokesman for the Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen forces, the Houthis have intensified their attacks, targeting Saudi Arabia, its national assets, and citizens in cities like Abha, Khamis Mushait, Jazan, and Najran. The attacks resulted in the injury of 73 civilians, including women and children, marking a dangerous escalation of violence.
Maliki stated that these attacks are a blatant violation of Saudi Arabia's sovereignty and a direct threat to the security and safety of its citizens and residents. The coalition general emphasized that the Joint Forces Command of the coalition will take all necessary measures to deter the terrorist militias and confront their hostile actions, defending the kingdom's sovereignty, national capabilities, and the safety of its people.
The Houthi attacks have been widely reported in Arabic media across the Gulf, with Saudi media reporting on the casualties. The kingdom has vowed to take measures to counter the group. The next moves will be determined by Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni government.
Riyadh has led the coalition against the Houthis since their intervention in Yemen in 2015. Over time, some coalition members have altered their policies, with the UAE, for example, having tensions with Riyadh due to its support for the Aden-based Southern Transitional Council. The complex situation in Yemen arises from the divided nature of the forces fighting against the Houthis, with various factions located near Saudi Arabia in Jawf and others engaging near Taiz.
The Houthis control a vast central, mountainous region, allowing them to swiftly deploy troops from one sector to another, creating a multifaceted military challenge. It remains uncertain whether Riyadh can achieve its objectives, which it has yet to accomplish since 2015.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Yemeni government forces intensify offensive against Houthis dailytimes.com.pk
