Houthi Militia Constructs 20-Kilometer Trench Near Bab al-Mandab Under IRGC Supervision

The Houthi militia, backed by Iran, has commenced the excavation of a 20-kilometer-long trench extending from the Kahboub mountains toward the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait, running parallel to the administrative boundary between the Lahj and Taiz governorates.

Field sources report that the militia has deployed heavy earth-moving equipment and bulldozers to the area following their recent seizure of key positions in Dhubab al-Mandab. According to these reports, the fortification operations are being conducted under the direct supervision of military experts affiliated with the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The construction of the trench and associated defensive fortifications appears intended to consolidate Houthi control and obstruct potential counter-offensives by the Giants Brigades, the Nation Shield forces, and the National Resistance. These groups seek to reclaim coastal territories that have been under Houthi control since September 9.

Analysts suggest that the current lull in military operations and airstrikes against Houthi positions provides the militia with a strategic window to fortify their lines. By digging trenches and deploying extensive minefields, the group is significantly increasing the operational complexity and potential cost of future efforts to liberate these vital maritime corridors.