Escalating airstrikes by the Saudi-led coalition on Houthi-controlled Sanaa and surrounding provinces, including dozens reported in early October 2026, reflect intensified cross-border exchanges following Houthi seizures of Yemen’s Red Sea coast and Bab al-Mandeb strait in recent weeks. The breakdown of the 2022 truce in July triggered renewed fighting, with Houthis launching missiles and drones at Saudi targets while Saudi-backed Yemeni forces engage on multiple fronts such as Taiz. Riyadh is preparing a potential offensive involving up to 100,000 Yemeni troops with Saudi air support to regain coastal areas, though ground operations have historically relied on proxies rather than direct Saudi troop entries into the capital. Key upcoming catalysts include the timing and scope of any ground push, which could shift dynamics around Sanaa depending on Houthi responses and external support levels.