Houthis launch deadly missile and drone attacks on Yemen's al-Makha

Yemen's Houthis have intensified their military operations by launching a new wave of missile and drone attacks on the port city of al-Makha on August 9, 2026. This assault is part of a broader campaign targeting government-held areas along Yemen's western coast, resulting in the deaths of at least 11 individuals, including eight military personnel and three civilians. The attacks also left 32 others wounded and caused significant damage to the port infrastructure, commercial goods, and food supplies. Yemeni government forces reported that they intercepted six drones during the assault, while two ballistic missiles fell into the sea without causing any damage.

The Houthi military spokesman, Yahya Saree, stated that the operation aimed at Saudi troop concentrations and weapon depots in the region. The Houthis justified their actions by claiming that they were responding to a perceived Saudi military buildup, which included the reinforcement of allied forces with weapons and equipment along Yemen's western coast and in Taiz province. This escalation of violence has raised concerns about the potential for a major battle in Yemen, as the Houthis continue to target government forces and infrastructure.

In addition to the attacks on al-Makha, the Houthis also extended their operations to the al-Khokha district, south of Hodeidah. Reports indicated that the government-appointed governor of Hodeidah, al-Hassan Taher, survived an assassination attempt when a Houthi ballistic missile struck his residence. The situation in Yemen remains precarious, with ongoing violence and instability affecting the lives of civilians and military personnel alike.

The recent attacks highlight the deteriorating security situation in Yemen, where the conflict has persisted for years, leading to a humanitarian crisis. The Houthis' actions reflect their ongoing struggle against the Saudi-led coalition and the Yemeni government, as they seek to assert control over strategic areas in the country. As the conflict continues, the international community remains concerned about the implications for regional stability and the humanitarian impact on the Yemeni population.