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A month after Yemen government offensive began, war of attrition takes hold
Yemen’s internationally recognised government launched Operation Dawn of Yemen on 5 October, aiming to retake Houthi-held territory, including the capital, Sanaa. A month on, the city remains mostly calm apart from recurring air strikes, but fighting and territorial shifts elsewhere have continued, and analysts say the offensive has opened a new phase of attrition.
The Houthis have made gains in Taiz and Lahij, while researchers say strikes have targeted their fuel and supply networks, maritime routes and tribal support around Sanaa. A Yemeni researcher said many Houthi commanders and hundreds of fighters had been killed in attacks; the government also claimed it killed or wounded 1,540 Houthis in 24 hours. The article’s final sentence is cut off after a further government claim beginning “16,100 Hou…”.
In short
- Yemen’s offensive has entered a month of attrition.
- Sanaa is mostly calm, though air strikes continue.
- Fighting and territorial gains persist elsewhere.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of the offensive can argue that Yemen’s recognised government has a duty to try to recover territory held by the Houthis and protect communities from their rule. They may see pressure on Houthi forces, supply networks and military positions as a way to weaken their capacity and improve the government’s position, even if progress is slow and costly.
The case against
Critics can argue that a renewed military campaign risks deepening civilian suffering and prolonging a conflict that has already devastated Yemen, while territorial gains and losses may bring no lasting settlement. They may favour negotiations and humanitarian access over attrition, particularly given the uncertainty around casualty claims and the danger that attacks on supply networks and maritime routes could widen the harm.
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