Yemen’s anti-Houthi forces have launched an inquiry into the sudden collapse of their positions during an offensive against the Houthi-controlled capital, Sana’a.
The setback saw more than 15 brigades and an estimated 30,000 fighters retreat, allowing Houthi forces to seize large parts of Yemen’s western coast, including the strategic port city of Mocha.
The collapse has triggered questions over the readiness, coordination and morale of the anti-Houthi forces. Some Yemeni politicians have alleged that money may have been offered to forces defending the western coast to withdraw, although the claims have not been independently established.
The National Resistance Forces led by Tareq Saleh said their withdrawal was a tactical decision aimed at preventing their forces from being surrounded, following the deaths of about 500 soldiers.
Analysts have pointed to divisions among anti-Houthi forces, weaknesses in command and communication, and improved Houthi intelligence and military capabilities as possible factors behind the collapse.
Yemeni government and Saudi-backed forces are now reviewing the defeat and considering a reorganisation under a more unified command structure as they seek to respond to the Houthi advances.
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