Yemeni security officials say airstrikes by a Saudi-led coalition targeting Yemen's Shia rebels and ground clashes have killed and wounded dozens in the southwestern port city of Mokha.

Tuesday's battle was over a key military base located along a vital road to the heavily contested western city of Taiz. The officials say 35 pro-government fighters and rebels died.

The officials are neutral in Yemen's conflict. They spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to talk to reporters.

Yemen is torn by fighting between the U.S.-supported internationally recognized government, backed by the Saudi-led coalition, and rebels known as Houthis, allied with a former president.

The Houthis control some areas around the government-held Taiz and are fighting to take the city.