Between January 1 and January 22, 2025, Yemen saw heightened military activity, particularly by Ansar Allah against Yemeni Armed Forces (YAF) and STC-aligned forces. Incidents included assaults in Al Bayda, Al Dhale, and significant seizures of vessels in Al Hudaydah. Military strategies target critical infrastructures in Marib, underscoring the strategic importance of the region in the ongoing conflict.
The conflict in Yemen has escalated, particularly with Ansar Allah’s increased hostilities against Israel and maritime targets in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This article reviews significant conflict events from January 1 to January 22, 2025, highlighting the actions of Ansar Allah against forces such as the Yemeni Armed Forces (YAF) and those aligned with the Southern Transitional Council (STC). Overall, there was an 11% rise in such incidents compared to the previous month.
In Al Bayda governorate, on January 22, Ansar Allah launched an assault on YAF-aligned forces, injuring two soldiers with a UAV strike. In Al Dhale, on January 8 and 11, attempted infiltrations into YAF positions were reported but successfully repelled. Al Hudaydah witnessed the interception of two vessels transporting explosives and military materials mid-January.
Marib governorate recorded nine significant conflict incidents, with two YAF soldiers injured by gunfire on January 16. Ansar Allah also attacked Shabwa Defense Forces on January 16 and 20, employing UAVs during these operations. Taiz noted a slight decrease in hostilities, registering 10 attacks compared to 11 in the previous month.
The analysis indicates Ansar Allah’s sustained offensives around Marib, targeting the city’s strategic oil and gas infrastructure. These tactics appear aimed at capitalizing on prior airstrikes by Israel against fuel facilities, as Marib remains crucial for the Yemeni government’s influence in the north. The group historically exhibits high tolerance for casualties due to the area’s strategic importance.
The Yemen conflict, ongoing since 2014, involves multiple factions, including Ansar Allah (the Houthis) and the Yemeni government. Following a Saudi-led intervention, the war has drawn in regional powers, with recent conflicts expanding to include attacks against Israel and maritime operations. This report focuses on the developments from December 2024 to January 2025, amidst rising tensions and ongoing military engagements. The conflict in Yemen significantly impacts humanitarian conditions, worsening already critical situations due to military actions and blockades. The involvement of various factions, including Ansar Allah and STC, indicates the complexity and regional implications of the conflict as it unfolds, with direct confrontations and resource control remaining key elements.
The recent spike in conflict events indicates increasing military activity by Ansar Allah, especially around Marib, with persistent assaults against YAF and allied forces. The capture of vessels carrying military supplies reflects the intensity and reach of these operations. Given the strategic significance of Marib, the likelihood of continued hostilities remains high. Ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure like the Marib Dam and oil facilities will be essential to mitigate further humanitarian crises.
Original Source: www.janes.com