The Saudi ambassador to Yemen, Muhammad al-Jaber, said that the strategic Bab al-Mandab strait has been cleared of Houthi forces, calling it a victory for the Yemenis and the Arabs. The claim follows a government offensive launched this week to retake Houthi-held territory after the group advanced on Witch Island in September. Al Jaber did not provide details, and the Houthis did not respond.