Yemen’s government forces have launched a significant counteroffensive against Houthi positions, raising concerns of a renewed full-scale conflict. This military action follows a series of Houthi missile and drone attacks that resulted in the deaths of at least 30 government soldiers. The situation is particularly dire in Marib, a city that is home to over two million displaced individuals, where renewed shelling has targeted civilian areas, leading to casualties among non-combatants.
The Yemeni military’s response is framed as a necessary measure to protect civilians, but it also highlights a shift in the conflict dynamics. Experts warn that the recent escalation could signal a return to widespread violence, as the Houthis appear to be acting on suspicions of government collaboration with Saudi Arabia for a broader offensive. This marks a critical moment, as the fragile truce established in 2022 has effectively collapsed.
Elisabeth Kendall, a Middle East specialist, notes that the current troop movements and clashes indicate that the civil war, which many thought had quieted, is still very much alive. The unified stance of government forces could potentially alter the balance of power, especially if Saudi Arabia decides to intervene decisively.
The United Nations has called for immediate de-escalation, condemning both the Houthi attacks and their ongoing strikes on oil tankers in the Red Sea. As the situation develops, the implications for regional stability and humanitarian conditions in Yemen remain critical, with millions at risk of further suffering.
Source: Al Jazeera
