At least 15 Yemeni government troops were killed in clashes with Houthi rebels in Hodeidah governorate on Saturday, according to a Yemeni official. Walid al-Qudaimi, a minister of state, reported that the soldiers from the Tihama region died during fighting in the Jabal Dabbas area as violence escalated along Yemen's western coast. More than 50 Houthi fighters were also reported killed in the conflict, with dozens more wounded.
Key Details
The fighting began late Friday when Houthi forces launched an attack, briefly seizing pro-government positions. A pro-government officer described the battle as
the deadliest Houthi attack in years,
noting that Houthi fighters initially used snipers, followed by drones and mortars. The Houthis have been engaged in a prolonged conflict with Yemen’s internationally recognized government since 2015, controlling the capital, Sanaa, and much of northern Yemen, including Hodeidah.
Background
The recent escalation comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, with the Saudi-led coalition pledging an unprecedented response to Houthi threats. The situation has drawn attention as the United Nations has attempted to broker peace in the conflict, which has led to a humanitarian crisis in Yemen.
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The conflict in Yemen could affect oil prices due to the strategic location of Hodeidah, a key port city. Disruptions in oil supply routes may lead to increased volatility in crude oil markets. Investors will watch for further developments in the region and any potential impacts on shipping routes in the Red Sea.