"Retreat! The Houthis are already here": The night the world fell asleep on watch

A New York Times investigation reveals how the Houthis captured approximately 4,660 square kilometers within days and seized control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, amid a complete collapse of Yemeni government forces and a panicked retreat. Saudi Arabia has launched a new bombing campaign with U.S. support, but the history of fighting raises doubts about the operation's success.

A New York Times investigation, based on dozens of interviews with officers, soldiers, Yemeni and American government officials, and senior Houthi figures, reveals how the Houthi militia captured approximately 4,660 square kilometers within days and seized control of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait in September 2026. The collapse began on one night of chaos, confusion, and utter panic, when government forces' communication systems were cut off and soldiers fled shouting "Retreat! The Houthis are already here!" General Saleh, who had warned Saudi Arabia and the U.S. in advance, received no air support or electronic warfare assistance. Saudi Arabia launched a renewed bombing campaign this week with U.S. support, and government forces claim progress, but the history of previous fighting raises doubts. The investigation describes how a militia once considered disorganized has become a formidable force, exploiting divisions in the Yemeni army and the UAE's withdrawal.