Yemeni government forces seize district by Bab el-Mandeb, military sources say
USO•Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces seized large parts of Dhubab district overlooking the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, with Saudi-led coalition air support. The fighting threatens a major oil export route as Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz has already restricted Gulf energy exports.
1. Forces advance near strait
Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces seized key positions in Dhubab district on Monday as they sought to reverse Houthi advances. Three military sources and one government source said the forces had taken large parts of the district and were asserting full control with heavy air support from a Saudi-led coalition.
2. Fighting across Yemen
The internationally recognised Yemeni government announced an offensive on Sunday to recapture territory. Saudi Arabia is backing the campaign with air power and logistical support, while fighting has also intensified around Taiz, where the Houthis are trying to surround government forces. The conflict has threatened the Bab el-Mandeb route as Gulf energy exports are already restricted by Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
