Houthis launch offensive in southwest Yemen, face counter-attack from Saudi-backed forces

The Houthis launched a military campaign on September 3 in southwest Yemen aimed at capturing territory in Taiz Governorate from Saudi-backed forces and the legitimate Yemeni government. The Houthis seek to expand control along the Red Sea coastline toward Bab al-Mandab, attacking Taiz from multiple fronts to cut off the strategic port of Al-Makha. They initially advanced and captured the Al-Hays region, but Saudi-backed forces launched a counter-offensive and recaptured Al-Hays along with additional territory. At least 100-150 fatalities are estimated on both sides in what are described as the most significant ground battles on the Houthi front in recent months.