Yemen Government Launches Offensive to Retake Houthi Territory
President Rashad al-Alimi has ordered a major military offensive to retake all territory controlled by the Iran-backed Ansar Allah group, also known as the Houthis, including the capital city of Sanaa.
Al-Alimi Orders Liberation of Houthi-Held Zones
President Rashad al-Alimi stated the armed forces will continue their campaign until the country is liberated from the grip of what he termed a terrorist militia. This offensive marks one of the largest military buildups since the 2022 truce, with reports indicating the government could mobilize as many as 100,000 troops. Houthi officials responded to the announcement by claiming Saudi forces launched 50 air and missile attacks within a 12-hour window.
Houthis Target Saudi Aramco Facilities
In direct response to the government’s offensive, the Houthis launched ballistic missiles and drones at Saudi Aramco oil facilities. One facility located near Riyadh was engulfed in flames following the strikes. These attacks follow a strategic shift last month when the Houthis captured key areas along the Red Sea coast, increasing their influence over one of the world’s most critical shipping routes. This move aligns with broader Iranian efforts to restrict travel through the Strait of Hormuz following US-Israeli attacks.
US Provides Saudi Arabia with Intelligence and Targeting Data
While the US military is not engaging in direct combat, US officials told Axios that the military provides Saudi Arabia with intelligence and targeting data. This support continues despite reports that President Donald Trump rebuffed a request from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the US to launch direct airstrikes against Houthi positions.
Fighting Drives Thousands from Homes and Increases Food Insecurity
The renewed fighting arrives as Yemen struggles with a severe displacement and hunger crisis. The International Organization for Migration reports that more than 149,000 people have been driven from their homes. The World Food Program states that disrupted food delivery routes have left 18.3 million Yemenis at risk of acute food insecurity.
United Nations Development Program data highlights the scale of the conflict, estimating 377,000 excess deaths by the end of 2021. Of those, 154,000 resulted from direct fighting, while 223,000 were caused by indirect effects including hunger, disease, and the collapse of basic infrastructure. Children under five accounted for an estimated 259,000 of those deaths.
Yemen Conflict Details
| Metric | Detail/Statistic | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Government Mobilization | Up to 100,000 troops | Reported/Government |
| Population in Houthi Zones | Approx. 70% of Yemen | President al-Alimi |
| Excess Deaths (by 2021) | 377,000 | UNDP |
| At-Risk Population | 18.3 million (food insecurity) | World Food Program |
Common Questions About the Yemen Escalation
Why are the Houthis targeting Saudi oil facilities now?
The attacks on Aramco facilities are a direct response to the Saudi-backed government’s offensive to retake territory. They also serve to increase their bargaining power after the Houthis captured strategic Red Sea coastal areas last month.
What is the current role of the United States in the conflict?
The US is providing intelligence and targeting data to Saudi Arabia but is avoiding direct combat. This follows a decision by President Donald Trump to deny a Saudi request for US-led airstrikes.
How has the fighting affected food security in Yemen?
The World Food Program reports that fighting has disrupted critical food delivery routes. This has placed 18.3 million people at risk of acute food insecurity.
The current mobilization represents the most significant shift in military posture since the 2022 truce that temporarily halted the eight-year civil war.