Yemen’s internationally recognised government forces have reported new advances near the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait as fighting with the Houthis intensifies in western Yemen. Government forces said they had regained positions in the Dhubab, Bab and Hadeid areas near the important maritime route. The latest military operation is also focused on strengthening control over key coastal areas. The Bab el-Mandeb Strait connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and is one of the world’s most important shipping routes. Any major escalation in the area could further risk international shipping and regional trade. The Houthis have disputed government claims about the extent of the latest advances. Some battlefield claims from both sides could not be independently verified. The escalation comes amid wider tensions across the Middle East, with Saudi Arabia and its regional partners closely monitoring developments in Yemen and the Red Sea. Islam Global News will continue to follow the latest developments from Yemen, the Red Sea and the wider Middle East.