Clashes reported in Mokha
According to residents and military sources, Houthi fighters entered Mokha after clashes with pro-government forces on Wednesday night. Many families fled the area amid reports of injured people in the streets.
Strategic location near key trade route
Mokha lies about 75 km from the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a vital passage linking Asia and Europe. The Houthis stated they pose no threat to international shipping but maintained threats toward Saudi vessels.
Displacement and civilian impact
Thousands are reported displaced, with many heading toward Aden. Witnesses described panic and lack of warning before the fighting. The Houthis' Supreme Political Council said clashes had ceased after the expulsion of Saudi-backed forces.
Broader conflict context
The capture follows a week of Houthi offensive in southwest Yemen and Saudi-led coalition air strikes. Houthi military spokesman Yahya Sarea said 64 Saudi strikes occurred across western provinces in the past day. Saudi authorities reported civilian injuries from prior Houthi attacks on southern cities.
Next developments
Yemen's Presidential Leadership Council head urged international help to protect coasts. No immediate official confirmation came from Houthi leadership on the port takeover. [TO VERIFY: casualty figures and exact control status from independent sources]
