Yemen National Army Launches Drone and Mortar Strikes in Marib and Al-Jawf

SANA, Yemen — Forces from Yemen's National Army 6th and 7th Military Region Commands launched coordinated strikes against Ansar Allah positions early Wednesday morning in the strategic governorates of Marib and Al-Jawf. The offensive, which began at approximately 4:05 a.m. local time, utilized first-person view (FPV) drones to target specific strongholds before mortar rounds were dropped on the same locations.

The attacks represent a significant escalation in tactical operations within two of the most contested regions in the ongoing conflict. Marib, long considered the de facto capital of the internationally recognized government, and Al-Jawf, a critical border region, have been focal points of heavy fighting for years. The deployment of FPV drones indicates a shift toward precision targeting capabilities by National Army units in these sectors.

Witnesses on the ground reported hearing the distinct sound of drone impacts followed immediately by heavy artillery fire. Local residents described scenes of smoke rising from several compounds identified as Ansar Allah logistical hubs and command posts. The strikes appear to have been executed simultaneously across both governorates, suggesting a unified operational plan between the 6th and 7th Military Region Commands.

Ansar Allah has not immediately commented on the specific nature of the attacks or confirmed any casualties resulting from the Wednesday morning offensive. The group has previously denied holding significant fixed positions in Al-Jawf, often characterizing their presence as mobile resistance cells rather than static military installations. Conversely, National Army spokespeople have historically claimed to be dismantling entrenched networks that threaten supply lines and civilian populations in these areas.

The timing of the assault remains unclear. Military analysts note that pre-dawn strikes are common in this theater to maximize surprise and minimize initial defensive responses, yet no official statement has been released detailing the strategic objectives behind this specific operation. It is unknown whether the attacks were a reaction to recent Ansar Allah movements or part of a broader offensive intended to reclaim territory.

As smoke continued to billow from the impact sites hours after the initial strikes, local authorities have not issued evacuation orders for surrounding neighborhoods, though movement in the immediate vicinity of the targeted compounds has been restricted. The outcome of the operation regarding the status of Ansar Allah command structures in Marib and Al-Jawf remains uncertain as fighting continues to simmer in the region. Questions persist regarding whether this marks the beginning of a sustained campaign or an isolated tactical engagement.