Saudi-Backed Yemen Forces Seize Key Positions Near Bab al-Mandeb in Operation Dawn of Yemen

Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces have seized large parts of Dhubab district and claimed control of key positions near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, one of the world's most critical shipping chokepoints, as part of a newly launched offensive called Operation Dawn of Yemen. Military and government sources cited by Reuters said forces also retook the Al-Omari military camp in Dhubab and claimed control of Dhubab airport. Claims of full control of the strait had not been independently verified as of Monday afternoon. Yemen's deputy defense minister told Al Jazeera that operations are focused on reclaiming both Bab al-Mandeb and the port city of Mocha.

The offensive is backed by the Saudi-led coalition, which pledged full operational support, while ground activity was reported simultaneously on multiple fronts including Marib, Al-Jawf, and the western coast under air cover, with major gains reported on the Al-Kassara front in Marib. Yemeni government forces claimed more than 1,120 attacks against Houthi positions since the operation began. Saudi airstrikes also intensified across northern Yemen, including multiple strikes in Saada governorate.

The United States is providing significant behind-the-scenes support, though President Trump rejected Saudi requests for direct American strikes. The New York Times, citing U.S. officials, reported that the Air Force is providing aerial refueling for Royal Saudi Air Force jets conducting airstrikes, and the Pentagon has sent more than 200 intelligence and military analysts to Saudi command centers in Saudi Arabia to assist with target selection and support ground operations by the Presidential Leadership Council forces.

In response, a Houthi-run body issued a warning that Saudi airspace would not be safe as long as what it called Saudi aggression continues, raising concerns for commercial aviation. Reuters cited an analyst as saying the Saudi leadership believes the Houthis must be dealt significant blows before any compromise becomes possible.