Saudi-backed air strikes accompany ground push in Yemen's southwest

The southern‑western theater of the Yemeni war has become the focal point of a major military campaign launched by the internationally recognised government. In addition to the army's ground assaults, Saudi Arabia has stepped up its aerial campaign, delivering a series of precision strikes on Houthi positions near the strategic Bab al‑Mandeb corridor. The combined effort aims to reclaim territory that has been under rebel control since the conflict intensified in 2014.

Both sides have reported heavy exchanges, with the coalition targeting missile launch sites and drone depots while Houthi fighters have responded with rocket and drone attacks aimed at Saudi soil, including a recent strike on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport.