Yemeni Government Issues Warning of Massive Houthi Strikes in Shabwa and Marib
Yemen's government cautions of imminent large-scale Houthi offensives in the regions of Shabwa and Marib, risking the disruption of peace efforts and a potential relapse into conflict.
Minister of Information Muammar Al-Eryani has accused the Iranian-supported Houthi militias of amassing forces for attacks in Shabwa and Marib, threatening areas controlled by the government such as Bayan and Ain.
He warns that these assaults would hinder peace and worsen the current humanitarian crisis. Despite a ceasefire since April 2022, recent Houthi military build-ups in Marib, Shabwa, and Taiz raise concerns of escalating violence.
The Houthis are reportedly recruiting and preparing under the pretense of confronting Israeli actions in Gaza. Al-Eryani urges the global community to designate the Houthis as terrorists and implement sanctions, including asset freezes and travel bans, to cut off their resources.
Following thwarted Houthi raids in Marib that resulted in casualties, the Houthis also held a funeral for 15 officers in Sanaa and threatened U.S. naval presence in the Red Sea, while launching attacks on commercial vessels. The U.S. commits to consulting with partners on responding to these maritime threats, emphasizing their danger to international trade and safety.