Journalist Yousef Mawry points out that many believe the Yemeni government's counter-offensive is delaying the Houthi advance in Taiz, but experts argue that without a large-scale counter-offensive by the internationally recognized Yemeni government, current actions are insufficient to prevent the Houthis from ultimately controlling the city. A large-scale counter-offensive might require Saudi Arabia's support. Saudi Arabia has been assisting with airstrikes in western Taiz, where the Houthis are attempting to expand their control. According to the Houthis, Saudi airstrikes targeted local communications towers. Reports also indicate that a Saudi airstrike killed one civilian and injured another in Taiz. Currently, fighting is concentrated in the Qahbub area of Taiz. This strategically important mountain village, with its mountainous terrain, offers significant military advantages as it overlooks the surrounding area where the Houthis are currently reinforcing. In this region of Yemen, the core of the struggle is strategic terrain advantage, and the key lies in controlling the mountains. Whoever controls the high ground essentially controls the entire surrounding area, especially near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Intense fighting is reportedly taking place in this area. Overall, the Yemeni government forces are receiving reinforcements from the Giants Brigade, one of the main fighting forces of the Yemeni government army. So far, they have successfully prevented the Houthi rebels from advancing further into the area surrounding Taiz. However, many experts believe that if the conflict continues in its current manner, the protracted fighting may actually benefit the Houthis.
