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Yemeni government forces have lost control of several areas in the south-western province of Taiz during fighting with the Houthis of the Ansar Allah movement, Al Jazeera reported.
The fiercest fighting took place mainly in two areas, al-Barah and Maqbana.
According to the broadcaster, the main road used by the government to supply troops stationed in Taiz and al-Mokha could be under threat. Experts say that if the Houthis manage to cut the main supply line, they could also attempt to seize al-Mokha.
Clashes also took place in Yemen’s al-Jawf region following a surprise attack by government forces. Government forces struck Houthi troops and weapons depots. The military also used missiles and drones against them.
Reports indicate that the government-allied National Resistance Forces have fought fierce battles against the Houthis in the strategically important coastal province of Hodeidah.
The conflict in Yemen began in 2014, but the situation had been relatively calm since 2022. Since early July, fighting between government forces and the Houthis has intensified in various parts of the country, including Marib in central Yemen and several other provinces.
In July, the Houthis announced a naval blockade of Saudi Arabia in response to the blockade of Yemen’s ports and an attack on Sana’a International Airport. The blockade applies to all maritime traffic to and from Saudi Arabian ports. As a result, Houthi actions have created significant difficulties for Saudi vessels attempting to transit through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.