Yemen’s military has ramped up airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthi forces in strategic locations such as Taiz, Mokha, and Khokha, signaling preparations for a potential ground offensive aimed at reclaiming territory around Bab Al-Mandab. This escalation comes as the Yemeni army targets Houthi fighters and military assets, including a ballistic missile launcher at Taiz airport.
According to military officials, the air campaign has concentrated on areas around Mokha, which recently fell to Houthi control. The aim is to weaken Houthi positions before launching a ground advance. Abdul Basit Al-Baher, deputy head of the Yemeni army’s Moral Guidance Division in Taiz, noted that the airstrikes are relentless, targeting anything that moves, including fighters on motorcycles. He stated, “The sound of aircraft is constant, continuing around the clock.”
Al-Baher reported that over 200 Houthi fighters have been killed in recent strikes, although this figure remains unverified. He described the ongoing bombardment as a preparatory phase for a major ground offensive intended to regain control over vital regions, including Mokha and Bab Al-Mandab. The open terrain along the Red Sea coast makes Houthi forces particularly vulnerable to airstrikes, as they lack escape routes and are exposed to aerial attacks.
Yemeni Armed Forces spokesperson Col. Majed Al-Nuzaili confirmed that government forces have successfully destroyed Houthi equipment and targeted their positions in Dhubab and Khokha. The military escalation follows rapid Houthi advances along the Red Sea coast, raising the stakes for Yemen’s internationally recognized government, which is determined to regain control of the coastline and the crucial maritime chokepoint.
This military escalation has also exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the region. Authorities in Aden have established a humanitarian response cell to assist the growing number of displaced individuals. As of September 13, over 95,000 people have been displaced across six government-held provinces, with Taiz receiving the highest number of displaced families. Many have fled their homes, leaving behind their possessions and livelihoods, and are now living without adequate shelter, food, or healthcare.
Yemen’s Foreign Ministry has condemned recent Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi cities, which resulted in civilian injuries and property damage. The ministry emphasized Yemen’s support for Saudi Arabia and called for international action to halt Houthi attacks and support the Yemeni government in restoring state authority.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the intensified air campaign will serve to contain Houthi gains or mark the beginning of a significant ground offensive to reclaim key territories along the Red Sea coast.
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