A UN-mediated ceasefire reached in April 2022 lapsed in October 2022 but
remained a de facto truth until July 2026. On July 13, 2026, a Saudi airstrike
on Houthi-held Sana'a International Airport prompted Houthi missile and drone
strikes on Abha International Airport and a declaration ending the de‑escalation
phase. In late July the Houthis declared a naval blockade and struck oil
facilities on Saudi Red Sea coast; attacks on Saudi vessels in the Bab el‑Mandeb
intensified through August alongside strikes on Saudi‑linked military targets
across Yemen. In September the Houthis launched a major western offensive,
claiming roughly 5,400 sq km and, between Sept. 10–11, seizing Mocha, Dhubab and
Perim Island—giving them near‑control of Yemen’s Red Sea coast and an immediate
threat to Red Sea shipping. On Sept. 14 the group reported significant, precise
strikes on the Khamis Mushayt airbase and related infrastructure.
