Yemeni government forces are intensifying operations against Houthi rebels in multiple fronts as part of Operation Fajr al-Yemen
(Dawn of Yemen), with reports of significant clashes and aerial strikes across the country. The campaign, entering its tenth day on Wednesday, aims to restore state institutions and seize control of the capital, Sanaa, according to government sources.
Operation “Fajr al-Yemen” Targets Houthi Capabilities
The Yemeni armed forces announced the completion of over 1250 targeted operations within the past 24 hours, focusing on Houthi sites and capabilities using air strikes, drones, artillery, and missile launchers, Alarabiya reported. According to a statement by the army, these operations were aimed at dismantling Houthi defensive structures, command centers, and logistical supplies. Initial field estimates suggest around 700 Houthi fighters have been neutralized and over 150 vehicles and military equipment destroyed, reported Alarabiya. On Tuesday, the military announced 2,200 precise targeting operations carried out within 24 hours involving warplanes, drones, field artillery, rocket launchers, and sniper units, leading to the preliminary neutralization of about 1,200 Houthi fighters and the destruction or disablement of more than 440 military vehicles, equipment, and transport means. The military spokesman, Colonel Majid Al-Nuzaily, stated that the operations targeted frontline defenses, fortifications, command and control centers, artillery positions, rocket launchers, observation points, assembly areas, and weapons depots. The conflict began after the Houthi takeover of Sanaa and several governorates in September 2014, followed by an Arab intervention led by Saudi Arabia in March 2015 to support the internationally recognized Yemeni government.
Escalation in Taiz and Marib
Heavy fighting is concentrated in the governorates of Taiz, Marib, and Al-Jawf. In Taiz, airstrikes targeted Houthi reinforcements and gatherings, disrupting their attempts to reorganize forces and resupply positions, as reported by Alarabiya. In Marib, the government forces are making advances toward the strategic Mas camp in the west of the governorate, aiming to control key routes and monitor supply lines to Sanaa and Al-Jawf, according to Alarabiya. Additionally, a shell fired by the Houthi militia targeting the village of Aad at the top of Mount Saber, south of Taiz governorate, killed a child and a man, identified as 13-year-old Elias Mohammed Ali Al-Jundi and Moataz Ibrahim Ahmed Qasim.
Houthi Missile Strikes Target Riyadh Airport
In response, Houthi forces have launched counterattacks, including missile strikes targeting areas in Saudi Arabia. On Wednesday, they claimed responsibility for targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh with a ballistic missile, while the Saudi-led coalition announced intercepting and destroying the missile, Al Jazeera reported.
Humanitarian Concerns and Displacement
The escalating conflict is exacerbating the humanitarian situation in Yemen.
Financial Pressures on the Houthis
The escalating conflict continues to unfold, with the potential for significant humanitarian consequences. The situation remains fluid, and the outcome of Operation Fajr al-Yemen
remains uncertain.
