Yemen’s government aligned armed forces say they have thwarted large scale attacks by Houthi fighters on several fronts south and west of Taiz, as fighting intensifies around the strategically important city.
According to military statements, government forces repelled attempts by Houthi fighters to advance near Jabal Han, a key mountain position west of Taiz. The clashes reportedly continued for several hours.
The army also said fighter jets carried out airstrikes targeting Houthi positions and reinforcements in the Taiz region. The military statements did not provide a comprehensive account of casualties or equipment losses resulting from the reported operations.
Fighting Around Strategic Jabal Han
- Jabal Han is an important elevated position overlooking western approaches to Taiz and the Al-Dhabab road, a vital route connecting the city with areas farther south, including routes toward Lahj and Aden.
- Control of the mountain and nearby positions can affect military movements, access to supply routes and the ability of opposing forces to advance toward the city.
- On October 15, Yemen’s army said it had repelled a Houthi attack on Jabal Han following intense fighting. Separately, local media reported airstrikes that destroyed Houthi communications towers in the Bani Bakkari area of Jabal Habashi district. The Houthis had not immediately commented on the reported developments.
Why Taiz Matters in Yemen’s Conflict
- Taiz is one of Yemen’s major cities and has remained a key battleground between the internationally recognised government and the Houthi movement, which controls the capital, Sanaa, and other parts of the country.
- The area is strategically important because its roads and surrounding highlands connect inland regions with southern Yemen and routes toward the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a major international maritime passage.
- Renewed fighting around Taiz has raised concerns about the security of supply routes and the movement of food, fuel and other essential goods. Further escalation could worsen conditions for civilians already affected by years of conflict.
Background to the Escalation
- Yemen’s civil war intensified after the Houthis seized Sanaa in 2014. A Saudi-led military coalition intervened in 2015 in support of the internationally recognised government.
- A United Nations brokered truce in 2022 reduced hostilities for a period, but renewed fighting has since placed several fronts under pressure. The current operations around Taiz form part of a broader struggle over territory, transport corridors and military positions.
What Is Confirmed?
- The Yemeni army has reported repelling attacks near Jabal Han and conducting operations against Houthi positions. However, the full extent of casualties, damage and territorial changes has not been independently established in the available reporting.
- The Houthi side’s account of the latest clashes was not immediately available. Further developments will be important in determining whether government forces can maintain their positions and secure key routes around Taiz.
Source: Anadolu Agency and reports citing Yemen’s government-aligned military authorities.
