In a surprise attack, 11 fighters loyal to the Yemeni government were killed while repelling Houthi rebels in the southern Lahij province. The Southern Transitional Council confirmed their fighters were the target of the attack, which lasted for five hours. Despite a lull in fighting, sporadic clashes like these continue to occur in Yemen, with no clear end in sight.
Yemen: Ongoing Conflict and Recent Surprise Attack
Background
The Yemeni Civil War, which has been ongoing since 2014, pits Houthi rebels against forces loyal to the internationally recognized government backed by a Saudi-led coalition. The conflict has resulted in a protracted humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and facing food insecurity.
In recent years, a fragile ceasefire has been in place, but sporadic clashes have continued. The Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist group that seeks greater autonomy for southern Yemen, has also clashed with government forces.
Surprise Attack in Lahij
On February 27, 2023, Houthi rebels launched a surprise attack on government fighters in the southern Lahij province. The attack, which lasted for five hours, killed 11 government fighters. The STC confirmed that its fighters were the target.
This incident highlights the ongoing instability in Yemen, despite the ceasefire. The attack also raises concerns about the potential for a resumption of full-scale fighting.
FAQs
1. Who are the Houthis?
The Houthis are a Shia Muslim rebel group that emerged in Yemen in the early 2000s. They are part of a broader Zaydi Shia movement that has been in Yemen for centuries.
2. What are the goals of the Houthis?
The Houthis seek to establish a Shia-led government in Yemen and to end foreign influence in the country. They have also been accused of supporting Iran, which has denied the allegations.
3. Why did the Saudi-led coalition intervene in Yemen?
The Saudi-led coalition intervened in Yemen in 2015 to support the internationally recognized government and to prevent the Houthis from taking control of the entire country.
4. What is the humanitarian situation in Yemen?
The humanitarian situation in Yemen is dire. Millions of people have been displaced, and millions more are facing food insecurity. The conflict has also damaged infrastructure and disrupted healthcare and education services.
5. Are there any prospects for peace in Yemen?
Efforts are underway to negotiate a political settlement to the conflict. However, the path to peace is complicated by the deep mistrust between the parties and the presence of regional powers with competing interests.
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