Houthis to announce large-scale military operation, escalating Red Sea tensions

Yemen’s Houthi forces are preparing to announce what they describe as a “large-scale and significant” military operation, with Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, the group’s military spokesperson, signaling the imminent reveal. The announcement is expected at 4 PM local time.

A pattern of escalation

The Houthis, formally known as Ansar Allah, are a Zaydi Shia group backed by Iran that held considerable sway in northern Yemen since ousting the internationally recognized government in a coup during 2014–2015, triggering a Saudi-led military intervention. A UN-mediated ceasefire was largely effective until mid-2026, when violence resumed with increasing frequency.

In early August 2026, the group referenced plans for a “wide and qualitative military operation” following attacks on military targets in Marib. On September 4, 2026, Houthi forces launched a major assault in western Taiz and the Hayis district of Hodeida, deploying heavy weapons, drones, and ground troops in a coordinated push. By September 10, they had seized the strategic Red Sea port city of Mokha.

That strait connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. Roughly 12% of global trade passes through it on any given day.

By mid-September 2026, Houthi forces had advanced to key islands in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait itself, marking their first major ground offensive in four years. Casualties were reported in the dozens on both sides.

The regional chessboard

Saudi-backed forces responded to the Houthi advances with airstrikes targeting their positions. The Houthis successfully held Mokha and expanded their coastal footprint.

The Houthis claim their military operations are defensive responses to Saudi actions and influence in the region. Iran provides the Houthis with weapons technology, training, and strategic guidance, and the group’s drone and missile capabilities have improved dramatically over the past several years, with attacks reaching deeper into Saudi territory and more accurately targeting maritime vessels.

What to watch

Houthi attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea have previously forced major shipping companies to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, adding weeks and significant cost to voyages between Asia and Europe. Saree’s May 6, 2026 announcement via Telegram foreshadowed the September offensive by nearly four months, indicating the group’s announcements have historically been followed by action.

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