Saudi-backed forces withdraw from Bab al-Mandab as Ansar Allah approaches.
The Saudi-backed "Southern Armed Forces" announced what they called a "redeployment" from Dubab airport and the Bab al-Mandab area in western Taiz province. These forces include the Giants Brigades and are led by Abdulrahman al-Makhrami, a member of the Presidential Leadership Council of the Saudi-controlled government.
Their statement says the move prioritizes protecting Aden and the surrounding provinces from Ansar Allah's build-up and threats. It has not been said whether the positions have been completely abandoned.
Sources close to Ansar Allah say the retreat began after Yemeni forces advanced in the Jabal Haraz mountains and came close to capturing thousands of Saudi-backed fighters. They say that the units are withdrawing towards Khor Umira in Lahij, and that the remaining forces in al-Saqiya, Kahub and Ras al-Ara are also preparing to leave.
In early October, the same forces launched an attack with Saudi air support and repeatedly claimed that they had captured Bab al-Mandab. Six weeks later, they fall back to protect Aden.