Houthi Militia Closes Fuel Station in Ibb, Targeting Local Businesses
The Houthi militia has shut down a fuel station owned by trader Abdullah Mohammed Marah in the Bab Souq Al-Noud area of the Ba’dan district, located in eastern Ibb Governorate. This closure is part of a broader pattern of harassment faced by the commercial sector in areas under Houthi control.
Reasons Behind the Closure
Local sources indicate that the closure stemmed from disputes between the Houthi oil company manager in the governorate and trader Marah. The trader refused to comply with demands made by the company manager. Reports reveal that the fuel station had previously staged a three-day strike in protest against arbitrary practices, including the detention of Marah’s trucks.
Direct Targeting of Local Traders
In a further escalation, the militia prevented the unloading of one of Marah’s fuel trucks upon its arrival at the station. This action appears to be a direct attack on Marah, who has operated in the governorate for decades.
Aiming to Restructure the Commercial Landscape
According to sources, these measures aim to create opportunities for new traders affiliated with Houthi leaders from the provinces of Amran, Dhamar, and Sana’a. This strategy seeks to consolidate control over the commercial sector in Ibb.
Systematic Exclusion of Local Businesses
The closure of the fuel station highlights a systematic policy by the Houthi militia to marginalize local traders and tighten their grip on commercial activities in the governorate.
This ongoing situation raises concerns about the future of local businesses and the economic stability of the region.
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