Yemen government launches major offensive to retake Houthi‑held territories

Yemen’s Saudi‑backed government announced on 4 October 2026 that it would launch a major military campaign to retake all territory held by the Iran‑aligned Houthi movement, including the capital Sana’a.

The declaration, made by Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, marks the most extensive escalation since fighting resumed in July after a Saudi strike on Sana’a’s international airport ended a years‑long ceasefire. Officials said the offensive seeks to restore state authority across the country and secure vital maritime chokepoints.

Houthi forces have responded with missile attacks that hit Saudi Arabian energy facilities, prompting Riyadh to vow increased air support for Yemeni ground troops. Saudi air power, including U.S.-built F‑15s, Eurofighter Typhoons and Tornado aircraft, is expected to back the offensive, according to regional reports.

“If our enemies again choose the path of military confrontation, our response will be stronger than before, and we will defend ourselves with even more force,” Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said.

Iran’s statement underscored the broader geopolitical stakes, as the United Kingdom’s Maritime Trade Operations agency reported a third oil‑tanker strike in the Strait of Hormuz within two days. Brent crude prices hovered around $102 per barrel, and U.S. gasoline averaged $4.37 per gallon, reflecting market pressure from the heightened conflict.

Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council leader Rashad Al‑Alimi ordered the mobilization of more than 100,000 pro‑government troops, placing all state military, security and civil institutions on high alert until the campaign is completed. The operation aims to clear Houthi control from the western coast, reopen the Bab al‑Mandeb maritime lane, and pressure the militia’s logistical networks.

Analysts expect the campaign to begin within weeks, with fighting likely to intensify along the front lines surrounding Sana’a and the coastal regions. Observers will monitor the flow of oil through the Hormuz and Bab al‑Mandeb straits as the conflict’s outcome could further influence regional stability and global energy markets.