Houthi siege of Taiz tightens as more than 60 killed in 24 hours
The Houthi siege of Taiz has tightened as fighting killed more than 60 people in 24 hours, military sources from both sides told AFP on Monday.
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Fighters loyal to the Houthis march during a rally to recruit more fighters.
AFP/File
Houthi fighters have tightened their siege of Taiz in Yemen, with more than 60 people killed in the past 24 hours, military sources from both sides told AFP on Monday. The fighting follows a rapid Houthi offensive last month that captured large areas near the Red Sea coast.
What is happening in the Houthi siege of Taiz?
The Houthis have blocked all exits from Taiz and launched several overnight attacks on the city, which the internationally recognized, Saudi-backed government holds. Pro-government forces lost 22 members, according to a loyalist military source, while Houthi sources say the group lost at least 40 fighters and is sending reinforcements.
What role are Saudi airstrikes playing in the Taiz fighting?
The Iran-backed Houthis are keeping up their fight in Taiz governorate despite coming under Saudi airstrikes, the sources said. Both sides provided casualty figures to AFP on Monday, and the numbers could not be independently verified.
What is the humanitarian situation in Taiz?
On Sunday, the health ministry warned of a "humanitarian catastrophe" in the city. It said medicine, medical equipment and fuel were on the verge of running out.
Where is Taiz located in Yemen?
Taiz city lies inland from the Red Sea coast and the Bab al-Mandab strait. The Houthis captured swathes of territory around the strait in a rapid offensive last month.
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