U.S. strikes weaken Houthis as Yemeni forces prepare for a ground offensive to reclaim the Red Sea coastline. Nearly 80,000 Yemeni soldiers are mobilizing for this effort, with strategic support from U.S. military assets. The fighting could intensify over the critical port city of Hodeidah.
Two U.S. carrier strike groups are attacking Houthi positions in northwestern Yemen, while Yemen’s official government collaborates with allies to build a substantial ground force aimed at reclaiming the Red Sea coastline. This offensive may lead to fierce battles over Hodeidah, a critical city in Yemen’s ongoing civil war.
Dr. Abdulaziz Sager from the Gulf Research Center reported at a Chatham House panel that recent U.S. strikes have significantly weakened the Houthis. He highlighted that almost 80,000 Yemeni soldiers are being mobilized for a potential ground offensive, supported by U.S. drone surveillance and air coverage. Sager noted that the situation could signal a countdown to the Houthis’ end.
Chatham House research fellow Farea al-Muslimi indicated the preparation for renewed combat in northern Al Jawf and Sada and southern Taiz. He asserts that the Saudi and UAE coalition is arming these front lines, predicting that ground troop engagement could occur imminently. Current military discussions suggest that conflict may resume within hours.
The Houthis’ ability to defend their territory could be severely hampered by U.S. control over shipping routes to Hodeidah, the principal fuel entry point for western Yemen. Reports indicate that U.S. airstrikes resulted in six dead and 30 wounded among Houthis, with the group claiming a total death toll of 120, including civilians.
Additionally, the Houthis asserted they shot down an American MQ-9 Reaper drone, although U.S. Central Command has not confirmed this. While Central Command maintains sustained strikes on Houthi positions, detailed information about operations remains limited.
In summary, the U.S. military’s ongoing assaults and preparations by the Yemeni government and its allies are setting the stage for a significant ground offensive against the Houthis. With a substantial troop mobilization and strategic coordination, Yemeni forces might regain control of critical areas, including the pivotal port city of Hodeidah. The situation remains volatile, and the likelihood of renewed ground combat appears imminent.
Original Source: maritime-executive.com
