Houthi Militias Enforce Loyal Preachers in Ibb Mosques

On Friday, Houthi militias imposed a number of loyal preachers in most mosques across the Al-Makhadir district in northern Ibb governorate. They dedicated Friday sermons to spreading messages of hatred, violence, and sectarianism, which sparked widespread discontent among local residents.

Replacement of Preachers Sparks Protests

Local sources report that the militias removed the preacher from the Aqeel Mosque in the Shanin Al-Quba area and replaced him with a Houthi preacher from Dhamar named Abu Al-Zahra Fathi Al-Zaydi. This change prompted many worshippers to leave the mosque in protest.

Several attendees confirmed that the Houthi sermons in the district featured sectarian and ideological rhetoric. They accused anyone who disagreed with them of “hypocrisy” and “following the Jews and Christians.” Consequently, many residents sought out mosques that distanced themselves from this inflammatory discourse.

Sectarian Rhetoric in Ibb City

In Ibb City, the militias enforced loyal preachers in several mosques, including one who delivered a sermon at the Tawheed Mosque in the Al-Ma’ain area. His speech included insults and denunciations of the founder of the Umayyad state, Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan, which incited anger among worshippers, leading most to leave the mosque during the sermon.

Witnesses indicate that the exodus of worshippers from mosques has become a recurring phenomenon whenever Houthi preachers take to the pulpit. Residents view this rhetoric as offensive and sectarian, exploiting places of worship for political purposes.

Exploitation of Mosques for Political Agendas

Since seizing control of Ibb governorate, Houthi militias have consistently exploited mosque platforms to disseminate incendiary and sectarian messages. This practice faces significant backlash from the local population, who demand that mosques remain free from political conflicts and agendas.

The Houthis’ insistence on appointing loyal preachers reflects a clear strategy to increase their influence within the community. This approach threatens unity and deepens divisions among the residents of Ibb.

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