Houthi Militias Target Civilians in Al-Akhtor: A Rising Tide of Violence in Southern Ibb

Houthi Militias Target Civilians in Al-Akhtor

In a troubling development, Houthi militias have fired upon residents of Al-Akhtor village in the Al-Sayani district, located in southern Ibb Governorate. This incident occurred as villagers attempted to access their lands on Al-Akhtor Mountain, an area under militia control for several months. The attack underscores the ongoing tensions and deteriorating security situation in the region.

Houthi Aggression Against Local Residents

According to local sources, militia members, led by Abdullah Ali Qaid Al-Shalah, obstructed residents from reaching their properties and indiscriminately opened fire. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries among the villagers. In response to the aggression, the local community filed a complaint with the militia’s security administration. However, Houthi leaders reacted with defiance, threatening arrest should residents attempt to ascend the mountain again, which has been designated as a closed military zone.

Increasing Military Presence and Community Repression

In recent weeks, the Houthi militias have significantly increased their military presence on Al-Akhtor Mountain, establishing new positions, trenches, and weapon storage facilities. Concurrently, they have imposed restrictions on local residents, prohibiting them from grazing livestock, collecting firewood, or accessing their properties in the surrounding areas. These actions have severely disrupted the livelihoods of local residents who depend on these resources for their daily needs.

Sources indicate that there has been a rise in community movements opposing these restrictions. In retaliation, the militias have launched a campaign of abductions targeting several local leaders and dignitaries, including Sheikh Amin Marai and Judge Ali Salem Al-Fattahi. The militias have accused these individuals of espionage and collaboration, reflecting their broader strategy to consolidate control over the region.

These developments are part of a comprehensive military strategy that the militias have been implementing since late last year. This strategy aims to dominate the mountainous areas of Al-Sayani and its neighboring districts while establishing new military sites that overlook the critical road connecting Ibb and Taiz. The plan includes the installation of missile platforms, trenches, and tunnels, significantly heightening security threats in the area.

The situation remains tense, as local communities continue to face aggression from the Houthi militias, raising serious concerns regarding the future of peace and stability in the region.