Yemen War Escalates: Houthis Launch Major Attack in Al Jawf, Saudi-Backed Forces Strike Near Taiz

Yemen Conflict Escalates: Houthi Offensive in Al Jawf, Saudi-Backed Forces Strike Near Taiz

Fighting between Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement and the Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces has intensified, with clashes reported across several strategic provinces, including Al Jawf and Taiz.

The Houthis have launched major operations in Al Jawf, while government-aligned forces backed by Saudi Arabia have mounted counterattacks against Houthi positions. Reports indicate that fighting has also intensified around Taiz, as both sides seek to strengthen their positions on Yemen’s western and northern fronts. 

The escalation follows a major Houthi attack on southern Saudi Arabia involving missiles and drones. Saudi Arabia said the attacks wounded 73 people, while Saudi-led forces have intensified airstrikes against Houthi positions inside Yemen. 

The latest fighting represents a serious escalation after the relative calm created by the 2022 UN-brokered truce. The conflict is also taking on wider regional significance as the Houthis advance toward strategic areas near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, one of the world's most important maritime trade routes.