The speed of the offensive has raised questions over the preparedness of Saudi-backed Yemeni forces
Yemen’s strategically important Red Sea port of Mocha fell to Iran-backed Houthi fighters in a rapid offensive after forces defending the city appealed for Saudi air support that never arrived, according to CNN.
CNN correspondent Nic Robertson reported that communications with commanders and officials inside Mocha were cut during the fighting. By late afternoon, Yemen’s information minister confirmed that the Houthis had taken control of the city. CNN reported that the Houthi advance did not stop at Mocha. Robertson reported that the road south from Mocha towards Perim is largely flat desert with few major settlements or defensive positions, making it difficult for government forces to halt a rapid Houthi advance. CNN also reported that the Houthis could use their newly gained position on the coast to deploy boats, including explosive uncrewed vessels, against shipping.
A senior Yemeni source involved with the defence of Mocha told CNN that the Houthis had committed “everything they had” to the assault, including waves of fighters, ballistic missiles and other weapons. The source said Yemeni commanders contacted the US Central Command (CENTCOM) as the attack intensified and were assured that Washington was monitoring the situation and that Saudi air support was on its way. The collapse came after a day of intense fighting, with Houthi fighters advancing in large numbers towards the port city held by forces aligned with Yemen’s internationally recognised government. Within hours, the rebels moved to seize Perim Island, a strategic position at the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which links the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden.
Yemeni sources said the island fell on Friday.