Yemen Launches Operation Against Houthis
The Yemeni government has announced a major military operation to retake areas controlled by the Iran-backed Houthis, who have held the capital Sanaa and parts of the north-west since 2014. The operation aims to liberate the country from the grip of the militant group.
Global Newsflix 2 min read
Yemen's President Rashad al-Alimi announced the launch of a major military operation against the Houthis, saying the armed forces would press the offensive until the country is liberated.
The Houthis have withstood a series of attacks by Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and their Western allies over the years, but recently launched a surprise offensive, capturing the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait and parts of the Red Sea coastline.
The Houthi advance has given the group new leverage over the international shipping route, and has opened a new front in the wider conflict against Iran.
The Yemeni government's announcement came hours after the Houthis reportedly cut a vital supply route to the besieged city of Taiz, and attacked oil infrastructure in Saudi Arabia.
The Houthis claimed the attacks caused major fires, and were in response to 50 Saudi-led air and missile strikes in Yemen in the past 12 hours.
The US is providing intelligence to support Riyadh's operations in Yemen, while some regional and European nations are providing defensive military aid to the kingdom.
The conflict in Yemen has been ongoing for years, with the Houthis holding large parts of the country, including the capital Sanaa, since 2014.
Key facts
- Yemen's government launches major military operation against Houthis
- Houthis have held capital Sanaa and parts of north-west since 2014
- Recent Houthi advance has given group new leverage over international shipping route
- US providing intelligence to support Riyadh's operations in Yemen
Three perspectives
Neutral
The situation in Yemen remains complex, with multiple parties involved in the conflict. The outcome of the military operation is uncertain, and the humanitarian situation in the country continues to deteriorate. The international community will be watching the situation closely.
Positive
The launch of the military operation could mark a turning point in the conflict, potentially leading to the liberation of areas controlled by the Houthis. The Yemeni government's determination to retake control of the country could bring stability and security to the region.
Negative
The military operation could lead to further escalation of the conflict, resulting in more civilian casualties and displacement. The involvement of external parties, including the US and Saudi Arabia, could also exacerbate the situation, leading to a wider regional conflict.
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