Saudi-Backed Forces Retreat in Yemen Conflict

Yemeni government forces, supported by Saudi Arabia, have begun a strategic withdrawal toward the port of Aden. This move follows intense fighting in mountainous regions near the Red Sea and the strategic Bab al-Mandeb strait.

The Southern Forces described the maneuver as a troop redistribution. The official goal is to bolster security in the provisional capital and neighboring provinces in response to new military movements in the area.

The Yemeni government justified the action as a strategic priority based on operational calculations. Information Minister Salem Thabet Al-Awlaqi states that the reorganization is necessary to address the challenges posed by the current phase of the conflict.

Conversely, Houthi rebels celebrated the territorial gain and claim that government troops have lost key positions. Reports point to Houthi fighters now occupying areas about 80 kilometers from Aden, which increases pressure on the government.

The government offensive, which included Saudi airstrikes, failed to regain control of key areas along the coast. Meanwhile, the siege of Taiz remains one of the most critical points in the struggle for Yemeni territory.