Yemen's Saudi-backed government forces and Iran-aligned Houthis have intensified clashes around Taiz, Yemen's third-largest city, with the Houthis advancing on strategic hilltops and reportedly cutting the main supply route to Aden in recent days. On October 4, 2026, the presidential leadership council announced a major ground offensive to retake all Houthi-held territory, including areas near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, with Saudi Arabia expected to provide air support while Yemeni troops conduct the primary ground operations involving up to 100,000 personnel. Heavy fighting has already caused dozens of casualties on both sides in Taiz province. Saudi airstrikes have escalated sharply in the area, but direct deployment of Saudi ground units into Taiz would represent a shift from the coalition's typical role of aerial and logistical backing. The outcome hinges on the pace of the new offensive, Houthi resistance, and any diplomatic or external pressures that could alter coalition involvement.