Lahj, Yemen—Intense clashes erupted once again on Saturday between Houthi militants and pro-government forces in the southern province of Lahj, leading to casualties and displacement among the local population.

According to Namibia Press Agency, a military official, who chose to remain anonymous, reported that the conflict began when Houthi forces attempted to take over strategic mountainous areas along the administrative borders between Lahj and Taiz provinces. The ensuing battle resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and injuries to five others as both sides exchanged heavy fire.

Despite their efforts, the Houthis were unable to gain new ground; however, they managed to establish military positions near the front lines, intensifying the confrontation. Local media have highlighted the escalating violence, noting that many families have been forced to flee their homes due to the fighting, which raises serious concerns about the worsening humanitarian situation in the region.

This recent surge in hostilities follows a series of smaller skirmishes last week in the same area, which had already resulted in several fatalities. Yemen continues to be engulfed in a civil war that began in late 2014 when the Houthi group seized control of several northern provinces and ousted the internationally recognized government from the capital, Sanaa.