Houthis Lose Ground Along Strategic Bab Al Mandeb Strait In Saudi-Backed Counteroffensive

Saudi-backed Yemeni forces claimed to have recaptured Mokha and positions near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait during Operation Yemen Dawn, launched on October 5 against Houthi forces. The offensive involves the Nation Shield Forces, Giants Brigades and Tihama Resistance, with the Saudi-led coalition stating that 100 fighter jets are providing support. Government forces also reported advances in Dhubab district, while an independent Yemen analyst assessed that Dhubab Airport had been retaken and a Houthi supply route cut. Territorial claims remain incompletely confirmed, and the duration and sustainability of the counteroffensive are uncertain.