**Intense fighting has escalated in Yemen’s Marib Governorate in September 2026, with Houthi forces attempting advances and infiltrations against Saudi-backed Yemeni government positions while the Saudi-led coalition conducts supporting airstrikes.** Government forces report repelling attacks, inflicting casualties, and destroying vehicles, with commanders crediting coalition air and coordination support. Houthis have claimed strikes on Saudi aircraft and drones over the area amid broader coastal gains near Bab al-Mandab. As of early October, Riyadh is reportedly preparing a potential offensive using Yemeni ground forces under Saudi oversight and airstrikes, with options including operations across Marib and neighboring governorates to counter Houthi territorial control and maritime pressure. No verified reports confirm direct entry by Saudi ground troops, though sustained coalition backing and any expanded mobilization could influence trader assessments of timelines and escalation risks.