Houthis Expel Saudi-Backed Fighters From Taiz Districts, Video Shows
Ansar Allah released video on October 7 that it said showed its fighters removing Saudi-backed forces from two districts in Taiz province. The footage reportedly covered operations in al-Ma’afer and al-Mawasit, including the seizure of a palace belonging to Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council head Rashad al-Alimi. A Houthi military spokesman also said the group had blocked an advance in al-Jawf and carried out missile and drone strikes on several troop gatherings.
Ansar Allah said its Oct. 7 video documented operations in Taiz’s al-Ma’afer and al-Mawasit districts, where its fighters reportedly pushed out Saudi-backed units. The footage also purportedly showed the seizure of a palace belonging to Rashad al-Alimi, who heads Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council. Many fighters in the clip were described as barefoot.
A Houthi military official, cited by Saba, said Saudi-backed forces had left al-Salw district in southern Taiz and surrendered weapons and positions. Spokesman Yahya Saree separately reported blocking an advance in al-Jawf and missile/drone strikes on troop gatherings, including 11 concentrations in southern areas over 24 hours.
If Houthi gains in Taiz continue, residents could face shifting control, disrupted services, and further displacement. Families in contested districts may struggle with food, water, medical access, and movement. A possible collapse of Saudi-backed forces might alter local security and the treatment of detainees. Aid groups and civilians may need to adapt to changes in local authority. The outcome may also affect how communities perceive rival forces, though impacts remain uncertain.