Sana’a: Yemen’s prime minister visited an area leading to the Bab Al Mandab strait, the strategic southern entrance to the Red Sea and the gateway to the Suez Canal, after anti-Al Houthi forces pushed the militants out of the immediate area, government spokesman Rajeh Badi said Saturday.
Prime Minister Khaled Bahah’s visit comes amid continuing clashes with militants, known as Al Houthis, in surrounding areas, said Badi. Pro-government forces launched the attack Thursday against Al Houthis, who have controlled the area near the strait for several months.
Al Houthis have been in control of the capital Sana’a since last September and are at war with the internationally recognized government as well as southern separatists, and local militias.
Military officials from the anti-Al Houthi forces say their fighters advanced with air and naval support from a Saudi-led coalition that has been bombing Al Houthi positions.
Security officials close to the pro-government forces and medical officials say 55 pro-government fighters were killed in the battle that began Thursday.
As the pro-government forces advanced, bodies believe to be of Al Houthi militants and destroyed weaponry were seen scattered around the area.
Saudi and Egyptian warships have been deployed off the coast of Yemen to secure the strategically vital Bab Al Mandab. The strait is one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, a major route for oil from the Gulf and cargo between Europe and Asia.
All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to reporters.
