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Militiamen loyal to Yemen's government inspect the site of a landmine explosion in Yemen's central province of Marib October 13, 2015. The landmine was set by Houthi militants. Image Credit: Reuters

Sana’a: Security officials say air strikes from a Saudi-led coalition targeting Yemen’s Al Houthi militia have killed eight Al Houthi militants in a renewed attempt to cut their supply lines to the country’s third largest city.

The officials, who remain neutral in the conflict that has splintered Yemen’s armed forces, said Tuesday’s strikes hit the Red Sea port city of Hodeida, which lies on a major rebel supply line to the heavily contested city of Taiz.

Yemen’s fighting pits the Al Houthis against the coalition-backed internationally recognised government.

Taiz is in government hands, but is besieged by the militia. Securing Taiz would allow pro-government forces to push north towards the Al Houthi-held capital, Sana’a.

All officials requested anonymity because they are not authorised to brief reporters.