InternationalTuesday, 6 October 2026·The Hindu - International
Bab el-Mandeb Strait: Saudi-backed Yemeni forces retake Dhubab, Bab and Hadeid in October 2026 offensive
On October 5, 2026, Saudi-led coalition-backed Yemeni forces recaptured Dhubab, Bab and Hadeid near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On October 5, 2026, Saudi-led coalition-backed forces in Yemen launched a major offensive and retook Dhubab, Bab and Hadeid around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Key specifics
- Dhubab was described as a crucial town just north of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
- The offensive began under air cover from a Saudi military coalition.
- Saudi coalition spokesman Maj. Gen. Turki al-Malki said 100 fighter jets were supporting the forces.
- The coalition said it had secured air protection of the strategic Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
- U.S. officials said intelligence sharing, target identification and planning support were provided for the offensive.
Exam lens
Question type: Strait location and conflict geography, with names, numbers and coalition roles; key facts: Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Dhubab, 100 fighter jets, Maj. Gen. Turki al-Malki, October 5, 2026. TNPSC may ask which strategic strait was mentioned in the Yemen offensive.