Al-Mokha —  Southern Giants Brigades have announced the defection of a senior field commander from the Houthi militia, marking a significant shift in the dynamics of the western coast front.

In an official statement, the Giants Brigades confirmed they had received Sheikh Abdu Ahmed Abdu Awad, who previously served as the commander of the Second Company within the so-called Sixth “Karrar” Brigade of the Houthi forces. Awad reportedly declared his allegiance to the internationally recognized government and joined the Giants Brigades’ ranks in the Al-Mokha sector.

The statement described the defection as “a strategic breakthrough” and praised Awad’s decision as a “patriotic move that reflects growing discontent within Houthi ranks.” 

It also emphasized the importance of such defections in weakening the Houthis’ grip on key coastal areas and boosting morale among pro-government fighters.

Awad’s defection comes amid heightened tensions and renewed clashes along the western coast, where the Giants Brigades have maintained a strong presence. 

The Giants Brigades have called on other Houthi fighters to follow Awad’s lead and “return to the national fold.”

No immediate response has been issued by Houthi leadership regarding the defection.