Houthi forces retake military base as they surround Marib 

The Houthi-allied Yemeni armed forces have retaken Al-Labnat military base in Al-Jawf province from the Saudi-backed mercenaries fighting to reinstate exiled President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi. This is the first time in five years that it has been under Houthi control.

The pro-Hadi Islah militia at the base was reported to have handed weapons over to the Houthi forces.

https://twitter.com/YemeninmyDNA/status/1244721450768109568

READ: Experts believe Saudi Arabia looking for a way out of Yemen war

The Houthis’ advance now means that they are getting closer to encircling the remaining Islah-stronghold of Marib. Saudi-supported ground forces are close to losing another northern Yemen province following most of Al-Jawf falling to the Houthi-led forces at the beginning of the month.

It is speculated that the next target will be the Mas military base situated in Marib province. There are also ongoing battles to capture Kofal camp from Saudi-backed forces. The assaults are launched from Sirwah, which is currently under the control of the pro-Houthi military.

#Yemen
Map: Latest updates on #Marib front, 30 March 2020

Following Ansar Allah and Saudi-led forces battle in east and north of Marib front, Ansar Allah could cleanse Kufil base and Ghabira mountain.https://t.co/ZbiSGOa2RB

— IWN (@A7_Mirza) March 31, 2020

The collapse of the Saudi-backed ground forces could necessitate a Saudi withdrawal according to academic Samuel Ramani. He has drawn parallels with the strategic impact of the Syrian government retaking control of the city of Aleppo.

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