🔶 Reuters: Saudi Arabia is preparing for a new attack against the Houthis

Saudi Arabia, according to several regional and Western officials, is preparing a fresh military attack against the Houthis in Yemen; an operation that could begin within the coming week, with its main focus on recapturing control of sensitive routes around the Bab al-Mandeb.

According to Reuters, one of the main goals of this operation is to reverse the Houthis’ recent advances in Yemen.

In September, the Houthis took control of Bab al-Mandeb; a strait that is the southern entrance to the Red Sea and a route connecting Asia to the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal.

Control of this route is strategically important for global trade, energy transfers, and maritime security.

Based on what six sources familiar with the matter told Reuters, the operation in question is planned to be carried out with the participation of Yemeni ground forces.

These forces will operate under Riyadh’s supervision, and Saudi airstrikes will also support them.

The sources said Saudi Arabia is considering two scenarios.

The first option is a limited, focused attack on the area around Bab al-Mandeb.