Key facts
- Hundreds have been killed in Yemen's deadliest fighting since a 2022 truce collapsed.
- Over 300 fighters and civilians have died since fighting reignited last week.
- Recent fighting has killed government troops, Houthi fighters, and civilians.
- The conflict is intensifying along Yemen's western coast, including near the Bab al-Mandeb strait.
- The ongoing civil war has resulted in over 150,000 deaths and a severe humanitarian crisis.
Hundreds of people have been killed in Yemen's deadliest fighting since a 2022 truce collapsed, marking a significant deterioration in the country's security situation. Clashes have intensified in Marib and Shabwa, with recent fighting also impacting areas like Maqbanah and Jabal Habashi in Taiz. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides and has displaced thousands of civilians.
The fighting is some of the deadliest in years, following the collapse of the 2022 ceasefire. The Houthis are attempting to capture strategic hills overlooking Bab al-Mandeb to advance towards port cities on the coast, having already taken areas in western Taiz. Government forces have reported recapturing key hills west of Taiz.
The Bab al-Mandeb strait is a critical maritime chokepoint for global trade, and disruption there could further increase the cost of goods. The Houthis have previously declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia and disrupted traffic in solidarity with Gaza. Yemen has been embroiled in a civil war since 2014, with the conflict having caused at least 150,000 deaths and a severe humanitarian crisis, including widespread displacement and need for assistance.