Yemen Launches Operation Dawn of Yemen to Retake Sanaa

Published: October 5, 2026, 12:30 pm

Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council Chairman Rashad al-Alimi has officially announced the launch of a new military operation, dubbed “Dawn of Yemen,” aimed at reclaiming the capital city of Sanaa and restoring state institutions from the control of Houthi militias. In a statement posted on the social media platform X on Monday, Alimi invoked divine support for the mission to end the Houthi coup. He confirmed that the campaign will be executed by the Yemeni armed forces and various other military formations, bolstered by the backing of the country’s “brothers and friends.” Expressing optimism for the nation’s future, Alimi stated that with the determination of the people and the bravery of the military, Yemen is moving toward a new era of freedom, peace, and stability.

The military response is already underway, according to spokesman Majed al-Nazili, who confirmed that the armed forces have initiated a “strategic offensive” on the capital. He noted that the military is utilizing “modern capabilities” to carry out the operation. This announcement coincides with broader military activity across the region. Earlier on Monday, the Yemeni army reported that government forces had successfully seized the Dhubab district and strategic positions surrounding the Bab al Mandab Strait following intense clashes with Houthi fighters. These efforts included taking control of the Dhubab airport and severing the main road connection between Dhubab and Mokha. Additionally, the pro-government Southern Giants Brigades declared their own “decisive” military action against the Houthis in the Bab al Mandab area.

The Houthis have maintained control over Sanaa since September 2014, occupying vast portions of northern and western Yemen. In contrast, the internationally recognized government and its allied forces currently hold territory primarily located in the south and east of the country.

Photo: Collected