Southern Armed Forces, aligned with the Saudi-backed internationally recognized
Yemeni government, said they have redeployed troops from Zubab airport and areas
around the Bab al-Mandeb in western Taiz province. The withdrawal may leave
Iran-backed Houthi forces controlling terrain overlooking the Bab al-Mandeb,
increasing their leverage over the strategic international shipping chokepoint.
Southern forces said the redeployment is intended to strengthen defenses around
Aden and neighboring provinces. Separately, Iran continues to disrupt maritime
traffic via the Strait of Hormuz.