Yemeni government forces advance in Marib, Jawf and western coast

Yemen's Information Minister Moammar al-Eryani announced that government forces have taken effective control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a key oil route, despite ongoing clashes with Houthi forces. Rapid advances have been made along the coast, with Saudi air support bolstering the government's efforts. The Dhubab airstrip, located inland from the strait, has reportedly fallen to the Yemeni military, cutting off remaining Houthi positions.

However, another government source claims the fighting is still ongoing at a military base near the strait.

The Houthis deny these gains, labeling such claims as "completely untrue". While control of the coastal area around the strait would hinder the Houthis' ability to disrupt shipping between the Mediterranean and Indian Ocean, they can still target vessels with drones from further up the coast and inland.

Houthi forces have also made significant advances near the city of Taiz, gaining access to a mountain road that has left government forces in the area besieged. However, one government source denies this road has been cut. The conflict in Yemen has its origins in a spillover from the US-Iran conflict, with the Houthis seeking control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and launching missiles and drones at Saudi cities and infrastructure.

The internationally recognized Yemeni government declared an offensive to recapture territory on Sunday, with President Rashad al-Alimi vowing to fight until the country is free from the "terrorist militia". Saudi Arabia, which arms and trains Yemeni government forces, is supporting the military campaign with air power and has sought logistical assistance from allies to push back the Houthis and restore free traffic in the Red Sea.

The conflict has already restricted Gulf energy exports and threatens another major oil export route, contributing to rising global prices and increasing risks in an already volatile region.