Saudi will use the NSG and Diralwatan to engage the Houthis in the west-coast of Yemen preventing a secondary front opening along the red sea.
Key indicators:
- National Shield Forces (NSF / قوات درع الوطن / Diralwatan) conducted a major internal security campaign in Hadramaut on 21 MAR 2026.
View attachment 190158
- National Resistance Forces (NRF) completed combat operations in Al-Dhale and are redeploying to reinforce the west coast amid reported clashes with Houthi forces.
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- NRF Commander GEN Tariq Saleh conducted a high-profile field visit on 02 APR 2026, signaling imminent escalation against Houthis.
- Saudi-backed NSF remains a key pro-government force focused on stabilizing government-held areas while NRF maintains pressure on Houthi coastal positions.
Overall Assessment: Saudi forces are conducting simultaneous operations in the east (Hadramaut) and reinforcing the critical western front. Unity and redeployment speed will determine momentum against Houthi forces.
Saudi-backed Yemeni military formation aligned with the internationally recognized government. Emerged as a major player in the Yemeni conflict.
Unit Highlighted: Second Commando Brigade - NATIONAL RESISTANCE FORCES (NRF)
Led by General Tariq Saleh. Primary anti-Houthi force operating along the west coast.
Operations: Weapons Control - Hadramaut
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Date: 21 March 2026
Unit: NSF – Second Commando Brigade
Location: Sayun and cities of Wadi Hadramaut
Mission: Prevent illegal carrying of weapons / enforce security
Visual Indicators: Aggressive disarming operations, vehicle searches, and destruction of unauthorized arms observed.
Large quantities of small arms ammunition and AK-style magazines recovered during Hadramaut campaign.
West Coast Front:
View attachment 190161
Reports of direct clashes between Houthi forces and NRF.
NRF Second Commando Brigade has completed combat operations in Qa'atabah, Al-Dhale and is now repositioning to reinforce west coast positions.
Leadership activity: 02 April 2026 - NRF Commander Field Visit:
GEN Tariq Saleh appeared in full military fatigues during troop inspection.
Key Statement:
“The battle to defeat the Houthis is getting closer and that unity will decide the outcome.”
Area of Control -
View attachment 190164
As of January 2026 baseline – no major shifts reported:
- Houthi forces control northwest (including Sana’a).
- Yemeni government / affiliated forces control bulk of country.
- West coast (Hodeidah sector) remains contested – primary area of current NRF/Houthi clashes.
- Southern areas contested between STC and government.
- Critical chokepoint: Bab al-Mandeb Strait – vital maritime corridor.
Specific Area of Interest (West Coast – Taiz Sector):
Potential flashpoint zone highlighted in operational imagery.
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Recent videos show arrival of new MRAPs in the region - likely donated by KSA.
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