The Houthis are preparing for a potential ground operation by Yemeni government forces against the Iran-backed group, Asharq al-Awsat reports.

Government sources tell the London-based, Saudi-owned newspaper that Houthis have increased mine-planting operations in Hodeidah and other population centers ahead of the possible operation by the Yemeni government in coordination with the United States. The newspaper does not clarify which government the sources are from.

The US military has hit the Houthis with near-daily airstrikes over the past month in a bid to stamp out their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

Claiming solidarity with Palestinians, the rebels began attacking the key maritime route and Israel after the Gaza war began on October 7, 2023, when their Palestinian ally Hamas launched a devastating terror onslaught in southern Israel.

They paused their attacks during a recent two-month ceasefire and hostage release deal.