Yemen Government Steps Up Independent Air Strikes Against Houthi Forces Amid Major Escalation

Yemen’s internationally recognised government has launched a series of air attacks against Houthi positions, marking a significant escalation in the conflict and some of the heaviest fighting since the fragile 2022 truce. According to the Yemeni military, government warplanes carried out at least 15 strikes against Houthi positions, gatherings, and vehicles in the western provinces of Taiz and Hodeidah.

These strikes provided crucial support to government forces fighting a major Houthi offensive targeting the Red Sea coast and the strategic Bab al-Mandeb Strait, one of the world's most vital shipping routes. While government aircraft have conducted prior strikes since the truce began to unravel in July—such as targeting missile and drone launch sites in Marib and al-Jawf, and attacking the runway at Sanaa International Airport—this latest campaign represents a notable increase in the independent use of government air power.

The fighting erupted as Iran-backed Houthi forces advanced through western Taiz and southern Hodeidah toward al-Makha (Mocha) and territory overlooking the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Analysts note that control over this corridor could strengthen the Houthis' position along the Red Sea and threaten vital government supply routes. More than 120 fighters have been killed since the offensive began, alongside several civilian casualties resulting from missile strikes in the Taiz area.

Analyst Mohammed al-Basha explained that while the Houthis achieved initial gains through a surprise multi-axis offensive, government forces have recovered much of the lost territory and deployed reinforcements. The deployment of air power is intended to help anti-Houthi forces retake high ground, secure key locations such as Jabal Numan, and prevent the group from severing critical supply lines.