More than 200 Houthi fighters have been killed in Yemen over the past 48 hours. The majority of these casualties occurred during fierce clashes and drone strikes in the southwestern province of Taiz.
Citing sources, Al Arabiya reported that most of the deceased were members of the Houthis’ Al-Samad Brigade.
Citing several sources, the independent Yemeni media outlet Yemen Future reported that the Houthis are attempting to regroup and launch fresh attacks to offset their losses. To this end, they have deployed new troops and fighters to the Al-Barh front, west of Taiz city. Reports indicate that these reinforcements include Houthi special forces and commandos, alongside other militarily trained personnel.
Meanwhile, there are indications that the Houthis are actively recruiting more fighters. Sources in Sana’a revealed that the group has begun releasing hundreds of prisoners held in areas under their control, making their release conditional upon joining the war effort.
According to sources, approximately 850 prisoners and detainees have been released from various jails in the provinces of Saada, Hajjah, and Sana’a. This group includes individuals accused of criminal and drug-related offenses. Preparations are also underway to release another 1,400 prisoners in Dhamar province.
Sources stated that the released individuals were required to sign pledges to join the fighting. In exchange, they were promised the withdrawal of pending cases or the resolution of their legal status.
Additionally, some prisoners were offered formal recruitment into Houthi forces along with financial assistance. Others, imprisoned for failing to repay debts, were given the opportunity to join the war in exchange for the settlement of their outstanding financial obligations.
