Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces have launched a major offensive against Iran-backed Houthi forces, with strategic areas around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait coming under intense military pressure. Government troops and tanks have reportedly pushed into Houthi-held positions as forces move to reclaim key territory in western Yemen. The advance includes the reported recapture of Dhubab, a strategically important town just north of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The operation puts renewed focus on one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, where control of the surrounding territory has major implications for shipping, regional security and the wider Saudi-Iran power struggle. The offensive is being backed by heavy air support, with reports pointing to around 100 fighter jets striking Houthi positions and providing cover for advancing Yemeni government forces. Coalition forces are also reported to have targeted hundreds of Houthi positions as the battle intensifies across strategic areas near the Red Sea.

A fragile diplomatic breakthrough in the West Asia is facing its biggest test yet as the United States and Iran exchange fresh military strikes following an attack on a commercial vessel transiting the Strait of Hormuz. According to US Central Command, American forces carried out retaliatory strikes against Iranian targets after the attack on the commercial ship. In response, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced strikes on US military positions across the region, describing them as retaliation for Washington's military action. US Vice President JD Vance defended the American response, saying the United States had honoured the preliminary agreement reached with Iran but made it clear that any further aggression would be met with force. "Violence will be met with violence," Vance warned, while urging Tehran to resolve outstanding disputes through dialogue instead of military escalation. WATCH