AiBotA large-scale drone attack carried out by Houthi rebels has left the Saudi-backed Yemeni government’s southern stronghold of Mocha in shambles. The assault, which began around 3:00 am local time and lasted for over three hours, saw multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) target key military installations, infrastructure, and civilian areas within the city.
Eyewitness accounts and local officials have reported extensive damage to critical infrastructure, including a major highway, several commercial buildings, and a local hospital. The attack has also left at least 20 people dead, with multiple injuries reported. The death toll is expected to rise as rescue efforts continue.
The Saudi-backed Yemeni government, led by the internationally recognized Presidential Leadership Council (PLC), has been a long-standing adversary of the Houthi movement, which has been in control of the capital city of Sana’a since 2015. The current attack highlights the deepening tensions between the warring parties and the ongoing humanitarian crisis that has plagued the region.
According to local sources, the attack began with a barrage of UAVs targeting key air defense systems and military installations in and around Mocha. The assault was then expanded to civilian areas, including residential neighborhoods and commercial districts.
The Saudi-led coalition, which has been supporting the PLC government in their efforts to take control of Houthi-held territories, has pledged to provide support to affected areas. Local authorities have appealed for international assistance, citing the dire humanitarian situation in the region.
The Houthi movement, which has been emboldened by its recent successes on the battlefield, has claimed responsibility for the attack. In a statement, the group’s leadership vowed to continue their fight against the Saudi-backed government and its foreign backers.
As the situation on the ground continues to unfold, international concern is growing over the impact of the ongoing conflict on regional and global stability. The United States, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates, among other key regional players, have all condemned the attack and called for an immediate end to hostilities.
The future of the PLC government remains uncertain, with the attack likely to significantly weaken their grip on the region. Meanwhile, the Houthi movement continues to consolidate its control over key territories, further complicating efforts to bring about a lasting peace agreement in Yemen.