Houthi Rebels Expand Offensive into Southern Yemen Highlands

Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels are expanding their offensive into the southern highlands to isolate the Saudi-backed government forces, following their control of the Red Sea coast. The move aims to cut supply routes between the south and the coast. The Houthis are focusing on strategic high-altitude areas in Taiz and Lahij provinces, including the Kaf mountain region, to secure rear positions behind the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Saudi airstrikes have failed to halt the advance due to disarray among government ground forces. The UN reports about 700 deaths and over 120,000 displaced from the recent escalation. Fighting also continues in the resource-rich Marib province, intensifying Yemen's civil war.