Houthis’ new move – fierce fighting over vital strait
Government forces have launched Operation "Yemen’s Dawn" to regain control.
Now, the Houthi rebels are responding by laying mines in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, according to sources speaking to Al Arabiya.
Yemen’s Saudi-backed government forces have launched a major offensive to retake areas around the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
On Monday, control was secured over the strategically important city of Dhubab, just north of the strait.
At the same time, Turkey and Pakistan have sent forces to Yemen to assist with defense operations.
To halt the advance and retain control over the vital trade route, the Houthi rebels have followed the example of their allies in Iran: mining the strait.
According to sources speaking to Al Arabiya, a large number of mines have been deployed, while concrete blocks have been placed across roads in an attempt to block government forces.
Military sources report that the government has dispatched specialists to clear mines and remove improvised explosive devices in the strait.
The Houthi rebels have directed their wrath at their financier, Saudi Arabia, bombing the international airport in Riyadh. Three people have died and at least 28 have been injured. The militia says they used two ballistic missiles during the attack.
"It is a response to the Saudi aggression against our country, which involved 60 airstrikes and missile attacks over the past 24 hours," they state.
The Swedish government is outraged following the Houthi attack.
"The Swedish government condemns in the strongest terms the Houthi attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, which claimed innocent lives. These attacks are unacceptable and must stop. Our thoughts go out to the families who have suffered a loss, and we stand in solidarity with the people of Saudi Arabia."
Inga kommentarer:
Skicka en kommentar