Yemeni Government Launches Operation Against Houthis Amid Renewed Support

Yemeni forces are attempting to reverse Houthi gains with increased air power and renewed international support. The Yemeni government announced Operation Dawn of Yemen on October 6, 2026, aimed at restoring state authority across the country, following a military offensive on the southern Red Sea coast. The initial goal is to reverse gains made by the Houthis, who recently took control of the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a significant waterway. The operation ultimately seeks to retake areas held by the Houthis for over a decade, including the capital, Sanaa, which they seized in 2014. The government's achievements so far have been limited, with a modest advance near Bab al-Mandeb. The operation is reportedly being conducted in a more organized manner compared to previous efforts, particularly after the loss of the Red Sea coast to the Houthis last month. Challenges faced by government forces in early September included a lack of cohesiveness and military preparedness, as well as Houthi infiltration of communications. The Houthis have not secured the highlands overlooking their conquered areas, leaving them vulnerable to counteroffensives. Factors suggesting potential success for the government include increased involvement from Saudi Arabia, which has provided heavy aerial support. The Saudi-led coalition reported that 100 fighter jets participated in the offensive, marking its first acknowledgment of resumed air attacks against the Houthis since the 2022 truce. The air strikes have supported government forces on multiple fronts, including Taiz, Marib, and al-Jawf. Maged al-Madhaji, chairman of the Sana’a Center for Strategic Studies, noted that the effectiveness of the air strikes has improved compared to previous campaigns. U.S. intelligence support, with 200 advisers stationed in Saudi Arabia, has also contributed to the operation's coordination. The Giants Brigades, previously trained by the UAE and now supported by Saudi Arabia, have taken a prominent role in the offensive. They have previously defeated the Houthis in various regions and are now leading the battle in key areas. While government forces have claimed advances in Marib and al-Jawf, the Houthis continue to regroup and advance towards Taiz. The Houthis possess strong missile and drone capabilities, making it challenging for the government to reclaim territory. However, the Yemeni government and Saudi Arabia have stronger international backing than in previous escalations, with the UK providing defensive support and a mutual-defense pact with Turkiye and Pakistan activated. This international support may be crucial for the success of the anti-Houthi operation, which is expected to continue for several months.