Yemeni Government Forces Secure Key Positions in Al-Jawf Amidst Escalating Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis

Fighters aligned with Yemen's internationally recognized government have engaged in intense clashes with Houthi forces in the al-Jawf governorate. On September 15, 2026, the Yemeni army's media center announced via X that its 1st Emergency Brigade successfully recaptured strategic military positions and heights east of al-Hazm, the capital of al-Jawf. This advance reportedly resulted in the seizure of weapons and ammunition depots, along with the killing, wounding, and capture of Houthi fighters, and the destruction of armored vehicles.

The Houthis, however, have countered these claims, stating they thwarted advances by government forces in both al-Jawf and the neighboring Marib governorate. Al-Jawf's strategic importance is underscored by its border with Saudi Arabia and its proximity to the Houthi-controlled governorates of Sanaa and Saada, making it a critical front in the government's ongoing campaign to reclaim territory lost since the Houthis seized Sanaa in 2014. These operations are part of 'Operation Dawn of Yemen,' initiated in October to reverse Houthi gains.

Simultaneously, fighting persists around the southern city of Taiz, where government forces reported repelling Houthi attacks in al-Aqroudh, southeast of the city, and on the Tur al-Baha front in the adjacent Lahij governorate. In a separate development, Houthi-affiliated media reported two air strikes targeting an oil company facility in the Bajil district of Hodeidah governorate.

The intensified fighting exacerbates the already dire humanitarian situation, particularly in the besieged city of Taiz. The ongoing siege strains local hospitals and severely restricts the delivery of essential food, fuel, and medical supplies. While the Houthis do not control Taiz city itself, they maintain control over key access routes, limiting civilian movement and access to necessities, with reports of sniper fire from surrounding hillsides.

Recent videos shared by Yemeni media outlets depicted what was described as the first medical aid shipment arriving from Marib to assist the wounded, displaced families, and other residents. However, further aid shipments are reportedly impeded by road closures. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, over 290,000 people have been displaced since the conflict escalated in August. The UN Population Fund highlighted that nearly 6,100 pregnant women are among the recently displaced, with approximately 600 expected to give birth soon. The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees has warned that over 65,000 refugees and asylum seekers in Yemen are facing deteriorating conditions due to disrupted services and rising costs of food and fuel.