Fighting intensified between government forces and the Houthi group on several fronts in Yemen, particularly in Marib and along the western coast, amid reciprocal military movements and uncertainty over the balance of control in Mokha and Dhubab. The fighting coincided with the displacement of more than 82,000 people from areas in Taiz and Hodeidah, according to the International Organization for Migration.
Marib clashes and government-force reinforcements
Marib is witnessing daily clashes concentrated on the southern, western and northern fronts, accompanied by reciprocal artillery and mortar fire. Government forces raised their readiness and reinforced their positions amid developments on the western coast. Drones are being used for reconnaissance and strikes during the fighting. A military source said government aircraft carried out four raids on Houthi supplies and positions on the Marib fronts.
Displacement and arrests in coastal areas
More than 2,000 people arrived in northern Djibouti as residents continued fleeing areas of confrontation. Developments linked to control of the city of Mokha and its port prompted families to head toward Aden and Lahij. The Yemeni Journalists Syndicate also reported arrests of journalists and activists inside Mokha.
The Yemeni Network for Rights and Freedoms said it had documented between 800 and 900 violations, including more than 150 cases of direct killing. Field testimonies cited by the source reported the field killings of Houthi opponents and critics and the looting of civilians’ property; these allegations are attributed to the testimonies and the network.
On the western coast, government forces carried out an airstrike that, according to the information available, targeted warehouses, supplies and personnel in and around Mokha, in addition to a raid in the Dhubab area. Journalist Saeed Thabet said the strikes indicated an attempt by government forces to regain the initiative, while the Houthis sought to consolidate their presence in Mokha, Dhubab and Bab al-Mandab.
The battlefield balance remains subject to rapid change, as neither side has established full control over the disputed areas. Forces that had withdrawn from some positions said their move was part of redeployment and preparations for an operation to regain the initiative.
In Taiz, the Houthis intensified their attacks at the city’s eastern entrance and attempted to cut the road, while forces stationed there said they had regained the initiative. The Houthis are seeking to consolidate their gains, while government forces are working to retake positions they lost on the western coast fronts.
