I'm Davan Maharaj, editor of the Los Angeles Times. Here are some story lines I don't want you to miss today. TOP STORIES Gains in Yemen A military offensive this month led by Saudi Arabia against Houthi rebels in Yemen has begun to pay off with some key victories on the ground. Pro-government forces have regained control of five southern provinces with the help of 3,000 troops from Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. The U.S. also has stepped up its aid, which involves providing intelligence and munitions and enforcing a blockade in the Gulf of Aden.