Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have advanced in recent days to within approximately 80 kilometers of Aden, the temporary seat of the internationally recognized Yemeni government. Their latest offensive threatens the key road link between Aden and Taiz and may significantly alter the military balance in the south of the country.
According to four military sources cited by Reuters, this marks the Houthis’ deepest advance toward Aden since the early months of the civil war in 2015. On Monday, November 2, fighting was concentrated around the Tur al-Bahah area. Previously, the rebels captured the al-Maqatirah district, forcing government troops to retreat from several positions.
The conflict is intensifying in the crucial region between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The consequences could extend beyond Yemen itself, as the strategically significant Bab al-Mandab maritime corridor is nearby.
Houthis push to within 80 kilometers of Aden
This latest advance poses a serious threat to Aden, which has served as the de facto base of Yemen’s internationally recognized government since 2015. Military sources report that Houthi forces have approached the city to within roughly 80 kilometers.
Over the past several days, their units have advanced through the al-Maqatirah district, securing strategically significant ground. The area holds particular importance because it allows control over high ground above the main road linking Taiz and Aden.
Government forces, Reuters sources say, have withdrawn toward the Tur al-Bahah region. That area saw further clashes on Monday near a military camp—one of the key access points to Aden.
This is the closest the Houthis have come to Aden since 2015, when, early in the conflict, they briefly entered the city before being pushed out by troops loyal to the internationally recognized government.
Vital Aden-Taiz route under threat
One of the main objectives of the Houthis’ recent offensive is the road linking Aden and Taiz—a crucial supply route essential for civilian movement, goods transport, and the provisioning of government-held areas.
The Houthis had already cut this main road at the start of October, further isolating Taiz and leaving residents with restricted access to food, fuel, and medicine.
According to information cited by Reuters, Taiz has been surrounded since early October. The blockade has displaced more than 100,000 people and deepened shortages of essential goods.
The United Nations has warned about the humanitarian impact of the siege. UN representatives have urged the warring sides to permit aid deliveries and not endanger civilians.
Correction regarding previous references: the mentioned article on the Taiz siege does not currently have a verified online address for Aktualizovane.sk. Instead, two verified thematic articles are listed below.
Houthis threaten strategic access to the Red Sea
The latest rebel advances must also be seen in a broader geographical context. The Houthis are seeking to control territory near the Bab al-Mandab strait, which connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. This passage is among the world’s most important shipping lanes, handling a significant share of global trade.
If the rebels consolidate their positions here, they could increase pressure on maritime traffic and on states supporting the Yemeni government. Possible attacks on cargo ships or restrictions on navigation could force vessels to take longer routes, increasing the costs of energy and goods transport.
According to security sources, Iran has previously urged the Houthis to prepare for the possibility of closing Bab al-Mandab if the conflict with the United States escalates. This threat has been covered in the article “Iran presses for Red Sea closure, urges Houthis to prepare for blockade in case of US attack.”
Aden hit by Houthi attacks
Aden has already suffered intensified Houthi attacks in recent weeks. Reuters reports that on Wednesday, the rebels struck the city’s airport, and in October, targeted the presidential palace.
These attacks demonstrate that the conflict is not limited to ground fighting in mountainous areas. The Houthis are also deploying rockets and other strike capabilities to put pressure on government political and military centers.
The Houthis have also warned international airlines against using Saudi Arabian airspace, claiming it could be dangerous for civilian flights due to military operations. More details are available in the article “Houthis warn airlines: Saudi airspace declared dangerous.”
Civilian populations at risk
The most severe consequences of the fighting are being felt by residents of areas near the front lines. Conditions in Taiz are especially grave. The city has been encircled since early October, and the destruction of the main supply route has led to shortages of food, fuel, and medicine.
Reuters reports that more than 100,000 people have been displaced by the fighting and blockade. The humanitarian situation could deteriorate further if clashes intensify near Aden and more transport links are cut.
Why does the Houthi advance matter for the wider region?
The Houthis are among Iran’s most important regional allies. Their military operations in Yemen are a significant element within the broader conflict between Tehran, the United States, Israel, and their regional partners.
Saudi Arabia supports the internationally recognized Yemeni government and has previously led a military coalition against the Houthis. The new escalation may add to tensions between Riyadh and the rebels.
Reuters also points out that the fighting in Yemen is taking place against the backdrop of broader military confrontations between the US, Israel, and Iran. While direct Iranian command over the current offensive has not been confirmed, the close ties and material support from Tehran to the Houthis are established facts.
The developments around Aden are therefore critical not only for Yemen’s future government, but also for the security of international maritime routes and the stability of the wider region.
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This article was translated from the original Slovak version with the assistance of AI.
