Yemeni gov’t forces aim for Sanaa, but Houthi defeat will be a challenge
Yemeni government forces have launched a major offensive to reclaim territory from Houthi rebels, claiming strategic advances near the Bab al-Mandeb strait. However, analysts suggest that the government's fragmented forces may struggle to dislodge the Houthis from their mountain strongholds.
Why it matters
The ongoing conflict in Yemen remains a critical geopolitical issue, with the potential to impact regional stability and maritime security in the Red Sea.
Yemeni government forces claim strategic advances near Bab al-Mandeb strait amid a major anti-Houthi offensive.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Yemeni government soldiers gather at the Jabal Han front, west of the city of Taiz, on October 3, 2026 [Ahmad al-Basha/AFP] By Justin Salhani Published On 5 Oct 2026 5 Oct 2026 Yemeni government forces have claimed advances along the strategic Bab al-Mandeb strait after the head of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, Rashad al-Alimi, announced the start of a major offensive to capture all territories lost to the Houthis.
On Monday, forces aligned with Yemen’s internationally recognised government claimed the advance and headed north along the Red Sea coast, and said they had retaken Dhubab Airport and the port city of Mocha – claims the Houthis disputed. They also earlier said that they had launched a “strategic offensive” on the Houthi-held capital Sanaa.
Also covering this story
12 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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