National Resistance Inflicts Heavy Losses on Houthis in Taiz Clashes

Clashes between National Resistance forces and Houthi militias have intensified across western Taiz Governorate following field movements by Houthi units and their launch of rockets toward areas along the western coast.

Combat Operations in Al-Kudha Sector

According to National Resistance sources speaking to Irm News on Thursday, military units stationed in the Al-Kudha sector of the Al-Burayh axis engaged in fierce combat with Houthi militias and inflicted significant human losses on their ranks.

Drone Interception and Ballistic Missile Attacks

The same sources confirmed that National Resistance units shot down a Houthi armed drone as it attempted to strike a Yemeni army position in western Taiz’s countryside. Separately, Houthi militias fired two ballistic missiles at a public market in the rural area of Al-Mawza District, western Taiz, bringing the total number of ballistic missiles launched against the western coast to 88 since the current escalation began, according to those sources.

Civilian Infrastructure Targeted

Houthi forces also struck a civilian workshop at the Mafraq Al-Mokha market in Al-Mawza’s countryside with two ballistic missiles. The workshop sustained material damage but was unoccupied by workers at the time of the attack.

Additional Frontline Activity

In Al-Haysh District, Houthi militias launched an explosive-laden drone toward positions held by National Resistance forces. In Marib Governorate, the Military Media Office reported that rocket artillery units under the Seventh Military Region targeted Houthi militia sites, barracks, and gatherings in the governorate’s western areas. Meanwhile, Giants Brigades units struck a Houthi military vehicle on the Al-Bayda front.

Presidential Leadership Council Directives

These battlefield developments follow directives issued by the Presidential Leadership Council ordering the maintenance of military, security, and intelligence readiness at maximum levels, alongside strengthening protective measures, early-warning systems, and integrated deterrence capabilities.

Anti-Smuggling Measures

The Council further directed strict implementation of anti-smuggling procedures—including control of land, sea, and air border crossings—and enhanced coordination among government agencies and local authorities to dismantle smuggling, financing, and supply networks benefiting Houthi militias and terrorist groups.

National Security Threat Assessment

The Council stated that smuggling now constitutes a direct threat to national security and a source of state resource depletion, as well as funding for militia economies. It emphasized the necessity of decisive action against smuggling networks and accountability for all individuals involved—including those providing protection or facilitation—regardless of their positions or affiliations.

Broader Context of Escalation

The renewed hostilities occur amid heightened tension across Yemen’s frontlines, with ongoing concerns about the potential expansion of the escalation. This has prompted government forces to reinforce readiness, intensify surveillance along contact lines and border crossings, and tighten counter-smuggling measures—authorities say such operations represent a key source of Houthi funding and logistical support.