Yemeni rebels bombed by Saudi-led coalition in key province

Independent Yemeni security officials and witnesses say 12 Shiite rebels were killed in airstrikes by a Saudi-led coalition in the province of Marib, where a rebel missile strike killed 45 Emirati soldiers earlier this week.

Officials from the rebel group, known as Houthis, confirm more than 20 airstrikes occurred today.

Neither side has captured more territory, as pro-government forces say they plan to seize the rest of the province before proceeding to Jawf, and eventually to Saada province, the Houthi heartland.

Officials fighting the Houthis say they are prioritizing taking control of the cities of Bihan to the west and Sirwah to the south, which lie on supply routes to the rebel-held capital, Sanaa.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to brief reporters.