Saudi-backed forces have recaptured key areas near Yemen’s Bab el-Mandeb Strait from the Iran-backed Houthis as part of a major offensive. The U.S. is providing intelligence and planning support, according to officials speaking on condition of anonymity. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey have agreed to implement their joint defence commitments following recent Houthi attacks.
Updated - October 16, 2026 07:33 pm IST