Iran-backed Houthi rebels captured on Thursday the port city of Mokha, in southwestern Yemen. The rapid ground offensive expelled government forces, backed by Saudi Arabia, from the city and port of Mokha, as reported by Yemeni political and military authorities speaking on condition of anonymity to international media outlets. The capture represents a significant strategic victory for the rebels.
The city of Mokha has strategic importance due to its location on the coastal strip near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial passage for trade between Asia and Europe connecting the Gulf of Aden to the Red Sea. Analysts point out that the region was the main objective set by the Houthis in their military campaign.
The offensive was launched a week ago and left over 500 dead according to the most recent tallies. The Yemeni internal conflict reached its highest level of intensity since the breakdown of the ceasefire that had previously been signed, once again raising levels of violence in the country.
