Yemen's government declares all-out war on Houthis
The Saudi-backed Yemeni government announced a major military campaign to retake all territory lost to Houthis over 12 years, ending hopes for peace.
Yemen's internationally recognised, Saudi-backed government declared a major military offensive against the Iranian-backed Houthi militia on Sunday, abandoning any prospect of a truce. The leader, Rashad al-Alimi, said in a televised speech that military operations would continue "until the country is liberated".
The government and Houthis have been locked in fierce battles since the Iran-allied militia took control of Yemen's Red Sea coast, disrupting shipping routes and energy markets. A fragile truce in 2022 held until the conflict reignited this year.
The Houthis have dismissed the government as Saudi mercenaries and vowed to continue "painful operations". The latest escalation has been devastating: the World Health Organization reported more than 800 people killed since fighting erupted last month, and the World Food Program says more than 150,000 have been displaced.
- More than 800
- Deaths since last month
- Over 12 years
- Territory lost
- More than 150,000
- People displaced
- Rashad al-Alimi
- Government leader
Why it mattersA major regional conflict is now openly escalating with no ceasefire in sight, destabilising Middle East energy and shipping while a humanitarian crisis deepens.
AustraliaEnergy prices and global shipping costs may rise if Houthi attacks on oil and fuel supplies continue; Australia's export routes could face disruption.
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