Yemeni government forces backed by Saudi Arabia have retaken strategic territory near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait from Houthi fighters, according to military sources cited by Reuters.
The offensive pushed through Dhubab district and toward the Red Sea port city of Mocha, restoring government control over positions near one of the world’s most important shipping routes.
Shipping lane remains exposed
Control of the coast reduces the Houthis’ direct presence near the chokepoint, but the group still holds inland territory from which drones and missiles can threaten commercial shipping.
The renewed campaign has been supported by Saudi airstrikes and comes after weeks of intensified fighting across western Yemen.
Humanitarian toll is growing
The conflict has displaced large numbers of civilians and worsened pressure on food, fuel and medical supplies. Fighting around Taiz is also continuing.
The territorial gains are significant, but they do not amount to an end of the threat to maritime traffic through Bab el-Mandeb.
Sources: Reuters, Oct. 5, 2026; Yemeni military sources.
