Intense clashes continue between Houthi rebels and Yemeni government forces over the strategic Kahbub mountainous region near the vital Bab al-Mandab Strait, following a major offensive launched by the rebels to capture the area.

According to Al Jazeera, the government-backed Giants Brigade repelled the infiltration attempt on Wednesday (September 16) and launched a large-scale counter-offensive today (September 17), joined by another government-aligned force, the Homeland Shield.

The counter-strike caused extensive damage to Houthi weaponry, ammunition, and military equipment. Government forces also captured two Houthi fighters and shot down an enemy drone during the operation.

Battle Fronts and Saudi Airstrikes

Simultaneous fighting was reported across the Taiz front as Houthis attempted to advance deeper into government-controlled territory:

• Stalled Rebel Advance: Al Jazeera reporter Youssef Mawry, reporting from Sana'a, confirmed that the Houthi movement has been temporarily halted due to the intense counter-offensives mounted by government troops.

• Expert Assessment: Defense analysts noted that sustained counter-attacks and continued foreign military support are essential to permanently check the Houthi advance toward critical maritime choke points.

• Saudi Aerial Support: Saudi Arabia provided close air support to Yemeni ground forces by launching airstrikes against Houthi positions in western Taiz. Local sources reported that one civilian was killed and another injured during the bombardment in Taiz.