Yemen’s Houthis advance as government forces redeploy

Yemeni government forces have moved their command centre towards the Bab el-Mandeb Strait amid an advance by the Houthis, Asharq Al-Awsat reports, citing Yemeni military media outlets.

The report said fighting west of Taiz Governorate has entered a new phase, prompting government forces to redeploy south of the strategic port of Mocha and establish an alternative command centre in the Dhubab area near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

The decision was taken by the military leadership following a breakthrough by Houthi forces over the past several hours.

Following several days of heavy fighting, Houthi units have reportedly advanced in the areas of Al-Waziya and Mawza and seized control of the key Khalid bin Walid military camp.

According to the source, the Houthis continue to send large reinforcements to the front line, actively deploying missile systems, heavy artillery and attack drones.

Ali Abdullah Saleh, Vice President of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, ordered the immediate reorganisation of units along the western coast. The government forces’ command said the move was aimed at restoring the command-and-control system, strengthening defensive positions and preparing for the next stage of the confrontation.

A.A. Saleh said the troops were facing a carefully planned offensive “supported and coordinated by Iran”.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov