Fighting between forces loyal to Yemen’s internationally recognized government and the Iran-backed Houthis has sharply escalated in recent days, with clashes spreading from Taiz and the Red Sea coast to the provinces of Al-Jawf, Marib and Al-Bayda.

The latest escalation began with a large-scale Houthi offensive against government positions in western Taiz and southern Hodeidah. The area is strategically significant because of its proximity to Yemen’s western coast and the Bab al-Mandab Strait, one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes.

Government forces and allied military formations subsequently launched counteroffensives on several fronts. The government said its forces had regained control of Hays district in southern Hodeidah, while fighting continued around Al-Barh, Maqbanah, Al-Kadaha and Al-Dabab in western Taiz.

The fighting has also expanded to the northeastern province of Al-Jawf, where government forces launched a new offensive around the Al-Labanat military base. Government troops were reported to be advancing towards Al-Hazm, the provincial capital. The opening of the northern front could increase military pressure on Houthi forces deployed around Taiz and Yemen’s western coast.

A notable development in the latest escalation has been the active involvement of warplanes operated by Yemen’s government forces. The Yemeni military has reported airstrikes against Houthi positions, military vehicles and reinforcements across Taiz, Hodeidah, Al-Jawf, Marib and Al-Bayda.

The battle for western Taiz and the Red Sea coast has significance beyond Yemen’s internal conflict. The area lies close to the Bab al-Mandab Strait, the strategic waterway connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and forming a critical maritime corridor between Asia and Europe.

The renewed fighting has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, including civilian deaths, while families have been displaced from frontline areas. The escalation is raising concerns that Yemen could slide back into full-scale war after several years of relative calm.