Houthi forces in Yemen have intensified efforts to seize strategic highlands in the country’s southwest, aiming to cut off the Red Sea coast from territories still held by the Saudi-backed government. The move follows reports that US President Donald Trump canceled planned airstrikes against the Houthis at the last moment.
The Houthis, an Iran-aligned group controlling Yemen’s capital since 2014, launched missile attacks on Riyadh over the weekend, with explosions and smoke reported near the Saudi capital’s airport. This marked the first such strike on Saudi territory since their recent military advances. Although the Houthis claimed responsibility for the missile launches, Saudi officials have not publicly confirmed the attacks.
The planned US airstrikes, reported by several sources, were apparently halted shortly before execution despite preparations underway on Sunday. Rashid al-Alimi, president of Yemen’s Riyadh-based, internationally recognized government, reportedly appealed to President Trump for military assistance during a phone call the same day. However, sources indicated that Trump did not offer any direct commitment to intervene.
Fighting has centered around the Kahboub Mountains, located in Taiz and Lahij provinces, which act as a crucial geographic barrier separating the Red Sea coast and the southern government-controlled regions. Control of this mountainous terrain, particularly around the Al-Wazi’iyah district in Taiz and the coastal area of Ras al-Ara near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, is seen as pivotal for both sides. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a vital chokepoint for global maritime trade and energy shipments.
Government forces have largely adopted a defensive stance following significant territorial losses along the Red Sea coast. Observers note the Houthis are attempting to maintain the momentum of their rapid territorial expansion despite ongoing Saudi air campaigns targeting them. Hundreds of Saudi airstrikes have been launched in recent weeks against Houthi positions in an effort to stem their advance.
The military gains by the Houthis have expanded the scope of the Yemeni conflict, which has escalated into a broader regional proxy struggle involving Iran and Saudi Arabia. The continued fighting not only affects the balance of power within Yemen but also raises concerns about the security of critical maritime routes and energy supplies in the Middle East.
As of now, the situation remains fluid, with neither side able to decisively consolidate control over the contested highlands. The outcome will likely influence both the future battlefield dynamic and the broader regional geopolitical balance.