Saudi-Backed Yemeni Forces Expel Houthis from Areas Near Key Strait

Forces allied with Yemen’s internationally recognized government recaptured several areas near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, officials said. They retook Dhubab, a crucial town north of the waterway, as well as Bab and Hadeid, during an offensive backed by Saudi-led coalition airstrikes. The campaign seeks to reverse Houthi gains along Yemen’s western coast and restore government control over the strategic chokepoint. The coalition said dozens of aircraft supported the operation, while the Houthis disputed the reported advances and continued launching attacks.