Yemen Launches Full-Scale Offensive to Reclaim Houthi Territory
Rashad Al-Alimi announced a major military campaign to liberate Yemen from Houthi control, mobilizing up to 100,000 soldiers with Saudi and U.S. support.
Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council Rashad Al-Alimi announced a full-scale military campaign on Sunday to reclaim territory held by Houthi forces and restore state authority across Yemen. The offensive, which may mobilize up to 100,000 soldiers, aims to recover all land lost over the last 12 years, including the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait and the Red Sea coast.
Al-Alimi stated the operation follows the exhaustion of de-escalation opportunities and targets the militia rather than civilians. Alongside the military push, the government is implementing a recovery program for reclaimed areas to repair infrastructure and pay state employee salaries. Al-Alimi offered amnesty to Houthi fighters who surrender and reaffirmed commitment to the Saudi-sponsored south-south dialogue.
Saudi Arabia is providing financial aid and air support, while the United States is supplying intelligence and targeting data despite declining requests for direct kinetic action. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree dismissed government forces as mercenaries and vowed to continue operations against Saudi Arabia. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that Iran would respond with force if enemies choose military confrontation.
The escalation follows a period of renewed conflict after U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran in February 2026. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated, with the World Health Organization reporting over 800 deaths since last month and the World Food Program noting 150,000 displaced persons.
