Houthi rebels have seized control of Yemen’s Red Sea coast in a rapid overnight assault, overwhelming Saudi-backed forces. The operation, which took place in a matter of hours, saw the Iran-allied militia push through defenses and establish control over key areas. No military force was able to stop the advance, according to reports.
The attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in Yemen. The Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have launched a coordinated assault on Saudi-backed positions along the coast. The operation resulted in the capture of strategic locations, though the exact number of casualties remains unclear. The Saudi-led coalition has blamed the Houthi rebels for the attack, accusing them of receiving support from Iran.
This development comes amid heightened tensions in the region. The Houthi group has previously targeted Saudi infrastructure, including airports, in attacks that have caused civilian casualties. The latest assault follows a deadly strike on a Saudi airport in Riyadh, which killed at least 12 people and injured over 300. The incident has drawn condemnation from international actors, including Pakistan, which called for an immediate halt to attacks on the Saudi kingdom.
The Houthi advance represents a major shift in the balance of power in Yemen. With control of the Red Sea coast, the rebels have gained a strategic foothold, potentially altering the course of the conflict. The situation underscores the deepening involvement of regional powers, with Iran providing critical support to the Houthi movement. The international community is now closely watching the developments as the conflict continues to escalate.
