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The Saudi-led coalition claims that its recent airstrikes on the central Yemeni province of Ma’rib killed more than 250 fighters of the Houthis (Ansar Allah).
The Houthis, backed by local tribesmen, launched a large-scale offensive to captured Ma’rib city and nearby oil fields from Saudi-backed forces more than nine months ago. In the last few months, Houthi fighters made significant gains to the west and south of the city. However, they sustained heavy losses.
According to the Saudi-led coalition:
- On December 1, 23 airstrikes targeted Houthi forces in Ma’rib, killing 120 fighters and destroying 18 military vehicles, including air-defense systems.
- On December 2, nine airstrikes targeted Houthi forces in Ma’rib, killing 45 fighters and destroying six military vehicles.
- On December 3, 13 airstrikes targeted Houthi forces in Ma’rib, killing 90 fighters and destroying eight military vehicles.
While the coalition’s claims are yet to be verified, there is no denying that the Houthis’ advance in Ma’rib slowed down in recent weeks.
Houthi fighters are holding onto their positions in the western outskirts of Ma’rib city. However, they are still situated more than 40 kilometers away from the city’s southern outskirts.
The Saudi-led coalition’s recent airstrikes slowed down the Houthis. However, Houthi forces leading the offensive in Ma’rib overcame similar pressure earlier this year. The group may resume its advance very soon.
