A fresh escalation in Yemen’s civil war has left 48 people dead in recent fighting between Saudi-backed government forces and Iran-aligned Houthi fighters, according to military sources. The clashes follow increased Houthi military operations targeting critical infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, intensifying a conflict that has caused widespread devastation.
Casualties Mount in Southern Clashes
Fighting between Yemeni government troops and Houthi combatants resulted in 48 deaths over a single 24-hour period, military sources confirmed to AFP. According to government military sources, 17 soldiers died in the clashes, while Houthi officials reported 31 fatalities on their side.
This spike in violence comes after months of intensifying military activity in southern Yemen. The four-year relative calm that followed a UN-mediated ceasefire in 2022 has fractured as Houthi forces push to consolidate control over key coastal areas, including the strategic port of Mokha.
Did You Know?
The broader conflict in Yemen has driven millions of residents to the brink of famine and resulted in an estimated death toll exceeding 150,000 people since the civil war began.
Houthi Cross-Border Strikes Hit Riyadh and Yanbu
The ground clashes coincide with cross-border missile and drone attacks launched by the Houthi movement into neighboring Saudi Arabia. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree announced via Telegram that the group carried out two major operations using ballistic and cruise missiles alongside armed drones.
According to the Houthi military statement, the first operation targeted sensitive locations in the Saudi capital of Riyadh, while the second struck a Saudi Aramco facility in the Red Sea port city of Yanbu. These strikes occurred shortly after firefighters extinguished a blaze at a fuel tank depot near the Riyadh international airport.
The Houthi movement currently maintains control over the Yemeni capital of Sana’a, alongside major population centers across the north and west. Meanwhile, the internationally recognized government operates out of Aden with strong backing from Saudi military forces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who supports the Yemeni government in the civil war?
The internationally recognized Yemeni government, based in Aden, receives strong military and political support from Saudi Arabia.
What areas do the Houthi fighters control?
The Houthi movement controls the capital city of Sana’a and densely populated regions across northern and western Yemen, alongside recent coastal gains.
What triggered the recent retaliatory strikes by the Houthi movement?
According to Houthi officials, the missile and drone operations targeting Riyadh and Yanbu were launched in response to what the group termed criminal Saudi attempts to target Sana’a.
Stay Informed on Global Conflicts
Get the latest verified news and international updates delivered straight to your inbox. Leave a comment below or subscribe to our newsletter for ongoing coverage.
Worth a look