Yemen prepares massive offensive against Houthis with 80,000 troops

Yemen is currently preparing for a significant military operation involving up to 80,000 troops loyal to the legitimate government, with the aim of recapturing the strategic port of Hodeidah. This development comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, where Houthi rebels have maintained control over key areas since a civil war broke out in 2014. The planned offensive is reportedly the largest of the civil conflict thus far, indicating a decisive moment in the struggle for power in Yemen. Abdulaziz Sager, a prominent Gulf researcher, has expressed optimism that this could be the turning point for the Houthis, who have previously been resistant to military offensives due to their proven durability against air campaigns. The situation in Yemen has drawn international attention, especially given the humanitarian implications of military actions around Hodeidah, a vital port for humanitarian supplies. A previous operation in 2018 aimed at surrounding Hodeidah was halted following international pressure, emphasizing the complexities that surround military operations in this conflict. U.S. Central Command has agreed to support Yemeni forces with drone surveillance and air cover, suggesting a level of coordination between the U.S. and Yemeni government forces in this renewed effort against the Houthis. As the conflict escalates, concerns about international reactions are rising. In the backdrop of this potential assault, the Houthis have been known to launch missiles that threaten regional stability, including recent missile launches that have prompted air raid alerts in Israel. The resilience of the Houthis and their ability to disrupt shipping lanes are underscored by ongoing military strategies from the U.S. aimed at deterring their advances while also highlighting the complex geopolitical situation that continues to unfold in the Middle East. The impact of such military maneuvers could shift the balance in not only Yemen but also affect international trade routes that are crucial for European and Asian economies. As Yemen prepares for this offensive, the stakes remain high not only for the parties involved in the civil war but also for regional players and the international community that keep an eye on the humanitarian costs and geopolitical repercussions of renewed military conflict. The penetrative resilience of the Houthis has forced local powers, including the Emirati and Saudi coalitions, to reconsider their strategies in the region, resulting in an urgent call for collaboration among states that have a significant stake in maintaining peace and stability across vital trade routes.