Yemen’s armed forces are gearing up for a potential renewed offensive from Houthi forces, who are reportedly amassing troops around the strategically significant city of Marib. A senior military official has stated that government forces are now better prepared, more experienced, and better armed than ever before.
Brig. Yahya Al-Hatemi, director of the Yemeni army’s military media, emphasized that the government forces have gained substantial battlefield experience over the past decade, equipping them to effectively counter any Houthi advances. “The armed forces have generally become more organized, powerful, and effective,” he noted, highlighting their ability to adapt military tactics and understand the enemy’s strengths and weaknesses.
The Strategic Importance of Marib
Marib has emerged as a crucial stronghold for the Yemeni government since the escalation of conflict in 2015. It is home to over two million displaced individuals, significant military bases, and vital oil and gas resources. The Houthis have made multiple attempts to capture the city, but previous offensives have been unsuccessful.
Recent reports indicate that the Houthis have dispatched large numbers of fighters and military equipment to areas under their control in Marib province, raising concerns about a possible new offensive. This buildup follows significant Houthi gains along Yemen’s western coast, including the capture of the Red Sea port city of Mokha.
Government Forces Prepared for Defense
Al-Hatemi acknowledged that Marib is likely to be the next major target for the Houthis. However, he expressed confidence in the military strength of government forces, stating that they have the necessary resources and local support to defend the city. “Marib has significant military strength and divine protection,” he asserted, adding that the local environment is largely hostile to the Houthis.
The situation has evolved since the Houthis launched a major offensive to capture Marib in early 2021, which resulted in heavy casualties. Although fighting subsided following a UN-brokered truce in April 2022, the Houthis have continued to launch missile and drone attacks while mobilizing forces around government-held areas.
Military commanders report that the current landscape is different, with government forces now operating under a unified command and benefiting from years of combat experience. Notably, Yemen’s military has reactivated its air force for the first time in over a decade, conducting strikes against Houthi positions.
Future Objectives and Regional Support
Marib Governor Sultan Al-Aradah echoed the sentiment of confidence, stating that government forces are not only prepared to defend the province but are also poised to launch broader campaigns against Houthi-held territories. He emphasized that the ultimate goal is to restore the Yemeni state and eliminate terrorist organizations, including the Houthis.
Al-Aradah also called on families in Houthi-controlled areas to refrain from sending their children to fight, describing such actions as leading them into “death traps.” He attributed the renewed conflict to the Houthis’ military escalation and criticized Iran for its role in encouraging the group to reject peace efforts.
As the situation in Marib continues to develop, the focus remains on the broader implications for Yemen’s stability and the ongoing struggle for control in the region. For more detailed insights, visit Arab News.
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