Saudi-led coalition retakes Red Sea strait areas from Houthi forces

Saudi-led forces and the Yemeni government launched a major military offensive on October 5, 2026, targeting Houthi rebels near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Government troops retook three towns close to the strait: Dhubab, Bab, and Hadeid. Witnesses saw tanks and soldiers entering these towns. Around 100 Saudi warplanes supported the ground operation, which was called "Yemen's Dawn." The Yemeni government said it plans to recapture all territory currently held by the Houthis. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a key route for ships passing through the Red Sea. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the offensive was expected, and he noted that a defence agreement exists between the United States and Saudi Arabia.