Riyadh: (RightNow). Intense fighting continues between Houthis and Saudi-backed forces in Yemen. At least 68 people have been killed in the past 24 hours.

According to Yemeni government officials, Houthi missile and drone attacks have killed 23 government soldiers in southwestern regions. Houthi sources claim 40 of their fighters have died in Saudi airstrikes and ground battles.

Saudi authorities report that debris from an intercepted drone in Taif killed one person and injured two others. Houthi-controlled media claims Saudi-backed forces’ attacks in Taiz resulted in the deaths of 3 children.

The International Organization for Migration states that over 100,000 people have been displaced due to the recent fighting. Houthis continue to advance in the coastal areas of the Red Sea.

It is important to note that the escalating conflict in Yemen is affecting global energy and maritime trade. Shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab is disrupted, potentially impacting alternative routes for Gulf oil to global markets.