Yemen's government seeks tribal backing as new offensive targets Houthi strongholds
The internationally recognised Yemeni government has launched a fresh military push against the Houthis and is courting tribal leaders in contested areas to join the fight.
The Saudi-backed Yemeni government has opened a new offensive aimed at recapturing Houthi-held territories, including the capital Sanaa, after modest advances along the Red Sea coast, Marib and al-Jawf. Tribes that have long avoided open confrontation are watching these developments to decide whether to align with the state. A major gathering in Marib saw tribal sheikhs, including members of the Jadan and Nihm clans, pledge support for the military campaign.
Analysts stress that tribal fighters could provide essential manpower, but their effectiveness depends on integration into formal command hierarchies. Historical attempts by tribes to rise against the Houthis have often failed when government backing was insufficient, prompting caution. Nonetheless, some tribes may shift allegiance if they perceive the government as a reliable power capable of delivering sustained support.
Why it matters
Tribal support could tip the balance in Yemen's civil war, influencing the government's ability to reclaim territory from the Houthis.
How this story developed
- Oct 3 Fire and thick smoke reported near Saudi Aramco site in Riyadh
- Oct 3 Saudi jets launched 26 strikes on Sanaa following the fire at the Aramco site.
- Oct 4 Houthi spokesperson announced that missiles and drones struck Aramco facilities in Riyadh and eastern Khurais, causing large fires.
- Oct 5 Yemeni government forces announced capture of positions near Bab al‑Mandab and the coalition deployed about 100 combat aircraft.
- Oct 5 Saudi-backed Yemeni forces have taken large parts of the Dhubab district overlooking Bab el-Mandeb, with coalition air support, after months of fighting against Iran-backed Houthis.
- Oct 6 The Saudi‑led coalition said its navy struck weapons caches and naval mines in Hodeida.
- Oct 6 Turkey and Pakistan have moved forces to Saudi Arabia under the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement after an emergency meeting in Riyadh.
- Oct 6 Missile and drone attacks hit King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Airport and Najran International Airport, injuring three people and causing limited damage.
- Oct 7 Government‑aligned troops announced the seizure of the highest summit in Jabal Habashi district, Taiz.
- Oct 7 Pakistani Lieutenant General Nauman Mahmud was appointed the pact’s inaugural secretary‑general.
- Oct 7 Houthis launched missiles at Aden International Airport, causing no casualties.
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