Alarming Human Rights Violations Documented in Yemen

A recent report by the Yemeni Network for Rights and Freedoms has revealed 3,665 serious violations committed by the Iran-backed Houthi militia in regions under their control during 2025 and the first half of 2026. The report categorizes these violations as war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Serious Violations Against Civilians

The report highlights that the field team documented 486 murders and 284 injuries resulting from direct assaults by militia members. Additionally, the report notes 18 incidents of home explosions and 1,974 cases of raids and looting of citizens’ homes across various provinces. Disturbingly, it also recorded 432 cases of abduction and enforced disappearance, affecting women, children, and the elderly.

Systematic Torture in Prisons

The network received 574 reports from families of detainees indicating that their loved ones faced torture and mistreatment in Houthi prisons. Detainees have been denied basic rights, as government buildings have been repurposed into detention centers where various forms of abuse occur.

Targeting Journalists and Activists

The report confirms that the militia has launched extensive campaigns to pursue and arrest journalists, media personnel, and human rights activists. This crackdown has forced many to flee Houthi-controlled areas, leading to a near-total absence of independent media. Documentation of violations now relies on observers who operate in secrecy, risking their lives.

Looting of Organizations and Conversion to Prisons

The report documents incidents of looting and confiscation of civil society organizations and human rights groups. Some facilities have been converted into prisons, while humanitarian organizations have been exploited as fronts to seize humanitarian aid.

Economic Collapse Due to Houthi Monopoly

The report indicates that the militia has monopolized oil derivatives, including diesel, gasoline, and kerosene, reselling them on the black market at prices up to 10 times their actual cost. This monopoly has halted thousands of economic activities, disrupted agricultural water pumps, diminished fishing operations, and led to the closure of businesses and layoffs. Consequently, food prices have surged due to increased transportation costs.

Most Affected Provinces

According to the report, the provinces of Ibb, the Capital City, and Al Hudaydah rank as the most affected areas in terms of recorded violations.

Surge in Criminal Activity

The report sheds light on over 31,000 criminal offenses reported in Houthi-controlled areas during the same period, marking a 68% increase. This alarming rise indicates a shift towards a fertile environment for crime and organized corruption, with a prevailing culture of impunity.

The findings of this report underscore the urgent need for international attention and action to address the ongoing human rights crisis in Yemen.

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