A spokesperson for Saudi-backed militias in Yemen disclosed to CNN that the Houthis had “deployed all their forces – wave after wave of fighters… as well as their available ballistic missiles and weapons.”
“Despite this,” the source lamented, “the anticipated air support never materialized,” leading to the rapid collapse and retreat of the Saudi-backed forces in just a matter of days. “Mocha has now fallen,” the source added. The aftermath of the swift defeat has triggered a blame game within the Saudi coalition, as the threat of direct missile and drone attacks on Saudi territory looms.
Another source informed CNN that the responsibility for the recent failures lies not with the Yemeni forces but rather is a result of a “disaster orchestrated in DC and Riyadh.”
Further details shared in an article include:
The source criticized the lack of effective leadership and decision-making in Riyadh, labeling it as a “complete failure of political leadership.”
“Despite receiving real-time updates, there were no airstrikes conducted by the Saudi forces yesterday,” the source emphasized. “It’s a colossal failure on the part of Saudi and American forces.”
Reports have also surfaced indicating that the Houthis have seized US-made military vehicles amidst their advances.
The unexpected success of the Houthis has emboldened them to target Saudi territory directly, escalating tensions in the region. Riyadh’s longstanding blockade on Houthi-controlled ports has been challenged, with the group signaling a willingness to allow international vessels passage while targeting Saudi and Israeli-affiliated shipping.
Amidst the ongoing conflict, the Houthis have demonstrated their ability to disrupt key chokepoints like Bab al-Mandeb without resorting to sophisticated weaponry. This strategic leverage poses a significant challenge to the opposing forces.
Recent reports highlight a ballistic missile attack on a Saudi base:
The Houthi group in Yemen claimed responsibility for launching a ballistic missile and drone strike on a Saudi military base, targeting key installations involved in the aggression against Yemen.
The Houthis have warned of further strikes if Saudi military activities persist.
While the Saudi coalition has initiated airstrikes on Houthi positions, analysts view the recent Houthi victories as a significant development with potential repercussions for Saudi Arabia and its oil exports.
President Trump’s remarks suggest a de-escalation of tensions, with the Houthis showing willingness to allow ships through Bab Al-Mandab, albeit with restrictions on Saudi vessels. The looming threat of maritime disruptions remains a key concern.