Clashes Intensify in Southern Yemen as Resistance Forces Advance Toward al-Jarrahi

SANAA — Fighting escalated across southern Yemen on Friday as the Yemeni National Resistance Forces, supported by the Giant Brigades, pushed toward the Ansarullah-controlled town of al-Jarrahi. The offensive marks a significant shift in the frontline dynamics following recent advances by the Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) elsewhere in the country.

The Resistance Forces launched a coordinated push from Jebel Dabbas, moving eastward with the objective of securing al-Jarrahi. Simultaneously, Ansarullah forces engaged in heavy artillery exchanges near the town of Hays, where they shelled positions held by opposition groups. The cross-border fire and ground maneuvers have resulted in a volatile situation in the region, with both sides claiming tactical successes.

Ansarullah attempted several counterattacks to halt the Resistance advance but were reportedly repelled. Witnesses described intense exchanges of small arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades throughout the morning as Ansarullah fighters sought to reclaim lost ground near the strategic highlands. Despite these efforts, the Resistance Forces maintained their momentum toward al-Jarrahi, tightening the encirclement around the Ansarullah stronghold.

The conflict in this sector appears to be a direct response to broader military gains made by PLC-aligned forces in recent days. The escalation suggests a coordinated effort to divert Ansarullah resources and relieve pressure on other fronts. Local residents in Hays have reported seeking shelter as shelling intensified, though the full extent of civilian casualties remains unclear.

Ansarullah has not officially commented on the specific losses suffered during the failed counterattacks, while the Resistance Forces have signaled their intent to press further into Ansarullah territory if current momentum holds. The strategic importance of al-Jarrahi and Jebel Dabbas lies in their control over key supply routes connecting northern and southern Yemen, making them critical objectives for both factions.

As of late Friday, the situation remained fluid. It is unclear whether Ansarullah will launch a larger-scale reinforcement to stabilize the front or if the Resistance Forces will be able to fully capture al-Jarrahi in the coming hours. Military analysts note that the outcome of these engagements could significantly alter the balance of power in southern Yemen.

The fighting continues without a clear end in sight, raising concerns about further displacement and humanitarian strain on local populations caught in the crossfire. Both sides have mobilized additional units to the area, indicating that the battle for control of these strategic locations is far from over.