Houthis Advance in Western Lahij as Saudi-Backed Forces Retreat
Houthi forces released video on October 14 showing an operation against Saudi-backed troops at Dhubab airport, claiming they captured vehicles and prisoners. Over the previous two days, the Houthis took several positions in western Lahij province from the Giants Brigades, National Shield Forces, and Subaihah tribal fighters. The gains followed a failed Saudi-backed counterattack launched on October 5 and raised the prospect of further Houthi moves toward Aden.
On October 14, Ansar Allah published video of an action near Dhubab airport. It said its fighters pushed back forces gathering there, seized or destroyed vehicles, and detained people. During the preceding two days, the group took multiple sites in western Lahij, including areas along the Aghbarah and al-Mudaribah fronts.
Those positions had belonged to the Giants Brigades, National Shield Forces, and Subaihah tribal fighters. Combat near Dhubab reportedly weakened the Giants Brigades and Subaihah units, with many commanders killed. The October 5 Saudi-backed counterattack did not reverse Houthi gains; instead, clashes continued at Dhubab airport and coalition-aligned forces lost more ground in western Lahij.
The fighting could affect civilians in western Lahij and nearby areas through displacement, casualties, and disrupted access to services. Families of combatants and local tribes may face further losses. If Houthi forces move toward Aden, urban residents and port-dependent supply chains may experience heightened insecurity or shortages. Aid groups could encounter greater difficulty reaching affected communities. These are possible consequences, not certain outcomes.