Yemeni Forces Advance on Bab al-Mandeb, Fighting Houthi Lines Near Dhubab Airport
Updated
Updated · Al Jazeera English · Oct 13
Yemeni Forces Advance on Bab al-Mandeb, Fighting Houthi Lines Near Dhubab Airport
3 articles · Updated · Al Jazeera English · Oct 13
Summary
Government forces loyal to Yemen’s internationally recognised authorities pushed toward Bab al-Mandeb in Operation Yemen’s Dawn, with fighting still active in Dhubab District and around Dhubab Airport.
Bab al-Mandeb has become the focal point because control of its coast, islands and high ground can improve surveillance and pressure maritime traffic on a key global trade and energy route.
The advance does not by itself secure the strait: Houthis could still threaten Red Sea shipping with missiles, drones, launch platforms and supply networks even if they lose coastal positions.
Kahbub Mountains in Lahj and nearby Taiz highlands could slow the campaign, while success also depends on unified command, secure supplies and coordination among government formations including the Southern Giants Brigades.
Saudi Arabia may respond more forcefully after deadly airport attacks, but wider Gulf or US military involvement remains uncertain as the escalation could either harden into attrition or create leverage for talks.