Yemen's government announces the start of an offensive against the Houthis

The internationally recognized government of Yemen has announced the start of a military operation to reclaim territories controlled by Iran-backed Houthis. Thus, preparations for the new offensive, previously reported, have moved into the phase of active operations.

Head of Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council Rashad al-Alimi declared the transition "from preparation to action" after, according to him, possibilities for de-escalation were exhausted.

Al-Alimi ordered the armed forces, security services, and other government-controlled formations to begin executing the approved military plans. Their goal, he said, is to restore the functioning of state institutions and reclaim territories controlled by the Houthis.

The decision was announced against the backdrop of a new escalation in fighting. In recent weeks, the Houthis have advanced in the south of the country and increased pressure on areas near the strategically important Bab el-Mandeb Strait – one of the key routes between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.

Control over this area matters not only for Yemen. Through Bab el-Mandeb passes one of the key maritime routes between Asia and Europe, so further escalation could create additional risks for international shipping and energy transportation.

The Saudi-backed government of Yemen opposes the Houthis, who hold the capital Sanaa and a significant part of the north and west of the country. Riyadh earlier increased support for anti-Houthi forces amid the group's advance towards the Red Sea coast.

"Kurs Ukrainy" reported on October 2 about the preparation by Saudi Arabia and its allies of a new offensive aimed at pushing the Houthis from strategic areas. Al-Alimi's current statement signals the transition from preparation to direct conduct of the operation.

Based on materials from: Saudi Gazette, The Guardian