The Houthis have moved large numbers of fighters toward areas controlled by Yemen's internationally recognized government in Marib, a key oil- and gas-producing province, ahead of the US designation of the militias as a foreign terrorist organization enters into force.

At the same time, they have stepped up sabotage operations in liberated regions and continued weapons smuggling.

Yemeni military sources told Asharq Al-Awsat that the Houthis have sent thousands of fighters to the frontlines in southern and western Marib, carrying out limited attacks as they prepare to take control of these areas.

Sources suggest that this move may be an attempt by the Iran-backed Houthi group to disrupt the situation and avoid the consequences of being officially designated as terrorists by the US government.

Meanwhile, the Yemeni Armed Forces announced thwarting Houthi attacks in several sectors in Marib, using artillery, Katyusha rockets, and snipers.

Military sources added that the group continues to send reinforcements to the frontline.

The Yemeni government estimates that the Houthis are planning to target areas under their control, focusing on oil and gas fields to create confusion as US blacklisting takes effect.

These developments follow concerns raised by the UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, in his latest briefing to the Security Council.

He expressed alarm over reports of Houthi military operations in Hankah Al Masoud village in Al-Bayda province, the killing of two children, and the wounding of others in an attack west of Taiz, calling for an immediate halt to these attacks.

Houthi leader Mohammed Muftah, appointed deputy prime minister of the self-declared government, warned the US against any punitive actions targeting the group or Yemen’s economy.

He said such steps would be seen as a declaration of war, promising a strong response.

Muftah urged the US to “understand this message” and also pledged to fight any new “US conspiracies.”