According to Abu Ali Express, overnight clashes erupted between Houthi forces and Saudi-aligned proxy forces in the Al-Khukha area south of Hodeidah in western Yemen. The report indicates that Saudi Arabia is refraining from direct airstrikes against the Houthis over fears of retaliation against Saudi energy and aviation infrastructure. The Saudi-backed forces have not recorded significant gains without air support, the outlet assesses.
The overnight clashes in the Al-Khukha area mark a new sector of engagement between Houthi forces and Saudi-aligned Yemeni proxy forces. According to Abu Ali Express, the fighting comes as Saudi Arabia continues to avoid direct military strikes against the Houthis, fearing retaliation against the kingdom's critical energy and aviation infrastructure.
The report assesses that without air support, the Saudi-backed forces have not achieved significant successes against the Houthis, noting that they missed opportunities during the past two years when Israel and the United States conducted intensive airstrikes against the Houthis.
The development occurs against the backdrop of a new defense alliance signed yesterday between Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan. The report notes that as long as the fighting remains confined to Yemeni territory, the alliance's mutual-defense clause is not triggered, as Saudi Arabia is not directly attacked.
The Zioneer has previously covered multiple rounds of clashes between Houthi and Saudi-backed forces, including fighting in Marib and Al-Jawf provinces, as well as Saudi airstrikes on Houthi positions.
- DevelopingUnverified reports of heavy clashes between Houthis and Saudi-aligned forces in southern Yemen
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- DevelopingAnti-Houthi forces claim artillery strikes on Houthi positions in western Yemen
- DevelopingSaudi Arabia reportedly strikes Houthi targets in Hodeida, western Yemen
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