Ansarullah Launches Intense Counteroffensive in Ma'rib Direction

SANAA, Yemen — Intense clashes erupted across the strategic Ma'rib direction in central Yemen on Thursday as Ansarullah forces launched a renewed counteroffensive aimed at breaching defense lines held by the Presidential Leadership Council (PLC). The fighting, which escalated late in the day, represents a significant shift in the ongoing conflict over control of the country's most critical oil and gas hub.

Ansarullah troops advanced toward key tactical positions including the al-Balaq heights, the town of Yara'a, and the Umm Rish Military Camp. The group's offensive operations focused on crossing the elevated terrain of al-Balaq to penetrate the PLC's defensive perimeter surrounding Ma'rib city. Heavy artillery exchanges and ground engagements were reported in these sectors as Ansarullah attempted to dislodge government-aligned forces from their entrenched positions.

The battle for Ma'rib has long been a focal point of Yemen's civil war, with control of the governorate providing access to vital energy infrastructure and supply routes connecting the north and south. The PLC, which administers the internationally recognized government in Sanaa, has maintained a defensive posture in the region for months, relying on fortified lines to contain Ansarullah advances. Thursday's escalation suggests an attempt by the Houthi-led movement to break through these defenses and expand their territorial control.

Fighting was concentrated around the Umm Rish Military Camp, a strategic installation that has served as a logistical hub for PLC forces. Reports from the ground indicate sustained combat as Ansarullah units pushed forward, while PLC defenders engaged in efforts to repel the incursions. The al-Balaq heights remain a critical choke point; their capture would provide Ansarullah with commanding views of the approaches to Ma'rib city and facilitate further maneuvers toward the urban center.

No immediate casualty figures were released by either side, and the status of key infrastructure in the region remains unclear. The intensity of the clashes has raised concerns about potential civilian displacement, as communities in Yara'a and surrounding areas face renewed exposure to combat operations. Both Ansarullah and PLC forces have historically used heavy weaponry in this theater, complicating efforts to distinguish between military targets and civilian zones.

The offensive comes as part of a broader campaign by Ansarullah to regain momentum following periods of stalemate. The group's ability to coordinate attacks across multiple fronts, including the heights and the military camp, indicates a concerted effort to overwhelm PLC defenses. However, the resilience of the PLC lines remains uncertain as the battle continues into the night.

As of late Thursday, the outcome of the push toward Ma'rib city remained undetermined. Questions linger regarding whether Ansarullah can sustain its momentum or if the PLC will successfully stabilize its front lines. The situation in central Yemen continues to evolve rapidly, with the potential for further escalation as both sides commit additional resources to the fight.