By Desmond Nleya
MOCHA, Yemen — Forces loyal to Yemen’s internationally recognised government have recaptured the strategic port city of Mocha from Houthi fighters, marking a major battlefield setback for the Iran-aligned group and opening a new phase in the government’s counteroffensive along the Red Sea coast.
The Saudi-backed Yemeni forces confirmed the recapture of Mocha on Monday as government troops pressed their advance against Houthi positions near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints.
The offensive follows the reported capture of strategic sites around Dhubab, further strengthening government forces’ position along Yemen’s western coastline.
Mocha, located on the Red Sea, has long held major military and strategic importance because of its proximity to the Bab al-Mandeb, which connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.
The latest fighting comes amid escalating regional tensions.
Turkey and Pakistan have agreed to activate rapid military deployment arrangements under the Mecca defence pact following Houthi threats against Saudi Arabia’s holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
Meanwhile, maritime security tensions have also intensified after a tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile in the Strait of Hormuz. Crews were battling an engine-room fire following the incident, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations.
In Tehran, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said negotiations with Washington had become “meaningless”, accusing the United States of carrying out attacks while talks were under way.
The developments point to a widening regional crisis, with fighting in Yemen unfolding alongside heightened tensions involving Iran, Saudi Arabia and international shipping routes.
