SANAA // Pro-government forces backed by Saudi-led air strikes took an island in the Red Sea from Houthis rebels, hours before a week-long ceasefire went into effect.
Tuesday’s seizure of Zuqar island also comes as delegations from Yemen’s warring factions convened for peace talks in Switzerland.
Yemeni officials said fighting intensified across the country as both sides sought to consolidate positions ahead of the UN-brokered meeting. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations.
Coalition spokesman, Brigadier General Ahmed Al Assiri, confirmed that the noon truce (1pm UAE) had taken effect. The Houthi rebel forces have yet to say if they will abide by the ceasefire.
Past efforts to end the conflict between the internationally recognised government and the Houthis have failed.
The two sides initially agreed to halt fire at midnight Monday but the coalition delayed the truce to midday Tuesday.
* Agencies
