Saudi-backed forces launch major operation against Houthis in Yemen

Forces allied with Yemen's internationally recognized government have recaptured several key areas around the Bab al-Mandab Strait from Iran-backed Houthi rebels. According to officials, government forces retook the crucial town of Dhubab north of the strait, along with the towns of Bab and Hadeid, with witnesses reporting government tanks entering these areas. A Saudi-led coalition air campaign involving 100 fighter jets is underway, aimed at securing air protection of the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The Yemeni military reported conducting over 1,000 strikes and launching an offensive against Houthi-held Sanaa. However, Saudi-backed forces gave conflicting reports about whether they had seized the port city of Mokha near the strait.