Houthis Advance to 80 Kilometers from Aden Amid Ongoing Strikes

SANAA: Yemen’s Houthi rebels have advanced to within 80 kilometers of Aden, engaging in cross-border strikes with a Saudi-led coalition on Monday, military sources reported. This significant movement brings the Houthis closer to the temporary capital than at any point since 2015, raising concerns about the stability of the region.

Fighting erupted at a military camp at the entrance to the Tur al-Bahah district, a key route to Aden, as Houthi forces captured the Al-Maqatirah district following a three-day assault. The advance threatens strategic positions along the main road linking Aden with the besieged city of Taiz, intensifying fears of further conflict.

In a related development, the Houthis reported that Saudi airstrikes targeted a crucial Red Sea port and an oil facility in Hodeidah province, resulting in injuries to seven individuals. According to Houthi health ministry spokesman Anees Alasbahi, four civilians were wounded in strikes on Ras Issa port, while three others were hurt in an attack on an oil facility in Bajil district. The Houthis condemned these attacks as a violation of international norms.

As the situation escalates, the international community is closely monitoring the conflict, with potential implications for humanitarian efforts and regional stability. Observers are concerned that continued hostilities could exacerbate the already dire humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Future diplomatic efforts may be necessary to de-escalate tensions and address the underlying issues fueling the conflict.