Yemeni journalist Ahmed Ayed has revealed the underlying reasons behind the Houthis' unexpected decision to reopen the Sana’a–Aden road through the Dhale governorate, a key route that has remained closed for seven years due to the ongoing war.

According to Ayed, the destruction of the Red Sea ports of Hodeidah — particularly Salif and Ras Isa — has severely crippled the Houthis' ability to import and export goods. This logistical crisis, he says, forced the group to “submit” and reopen the critical overland route to secure their basic needs.

He also noted that the Southern Transitional Council (STC) has reportedly received instructions to facilitate and cooperate with the reopening process, suggesting behind-the-scenes agreements between the factions.

The route via Dhale significantly shortens the distance between Sana’a and Aden to approximately 360 kilometers — down from over 600 kilometers via alternative roads — which is expected to:

• Accelerate trade and cargo movement between northern and southern Yemen

• Ease the humanitarian suffering of civilians

• Reduce transport and logistics costs for businesses

While the development is economically important, analysts warn that the move may be temporary, driven by immediate military or political calculations. Further indirect negotiations may be required to ensure the route stays open.

This breakthrough comes amid growing international and regional momentum toward ending the war, with renewed calls to reopen land and sea corridors as part of a broader peace initiative.