Saudi-Yemen Military Plans: Saudi Arabia is weighing a major offensive against Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, aiming to regain control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and secure Red Sea shipping, with Yemeni ground forces led under Riyadh and Saudi air support; the US and partners are expected to provide intelligence/defense rather than direct combat. US Regional Buildup: The US is also considering a wider naval expansion around the Middle East, including multiple aircraft carriers and possible troop and air-asset increases, as tensions with Iran and Yemen-linked threats rise. Taiz Frontline Fighting: In Taiz, clashes between Houthis and government forces have killed dozens in a day of heavy combat, while both sides trade claims of strikes and interceptions; the fighting is tied to control near key coastal routes. Makkah Defense Pact Talks: Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye plan an emergency meeting in Riyadh to coordinate responses to escalating Houthi attacks and discuss options beyond purely military action. Humanitarian Pressure: The UN released $160m from its emergency fund, including allocations for Yemen, warning access blockages are still a major obstacle. Local Market Oversight: Yemen’s Dhamar economy office reported 1,243 violations during 1447 AH, including price hikes and sales of damaged/expired goods. US Arrest Linked to Houthi Support: A US Department of Energy engineer in Washington state was arrested for alleged material support to the Houthis, including purchases tied to explosives and drones and travel connected to Yemen.