Minister of Information: Houthi militias’ continued concealment of Sahar Al-Khulani reflects their oppressive practices against Yemeni women.

Minister of Information Calls for Action

The Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Muammar Al-Eryani, has condemned the ongoing detention of journalist and civil activist Sahar Al-Khulani by the Iranian-backed Houthi militia. Al-Khulani has faced forced disappearance for five months, despite widespread calls for her release and solidarity campaigns. Al-Eryani emphasized that this situation reflects the Houthi’s systematic repression and violations against Yemeni women since their unlawful takeover of the state, highlighting their disregard for international laws.

Circumstances Surrounding Al-Khulani’s Abduction

In a recent press statement, Al-Eryani detailed that the Houthi militia kidnapped Al-Khulani from her home on September 10, 2024. Her abduction occurred solely because she fulfilled her professional duty by highlighting the suffering of citizens. Al-Khulani refused to yield to pressure and threats aimed at silencing her criticism of the deteriorating economic and living conditions in areas controlled by the Houthis.

Targeting Women in Yemen

Al-Eryani pointed out that the abduction of Al-Khulani is part of a broader pattern of violence against Yemeni women. Over the years since the Houthi coup, hundreds of female journalists and activists have faced arrests, harassment, and torture. This campaign aims to restrict their freedoms and prevent their participation in public life.

Call for International Intervention

The Minister urged the international community, the United Nations, and human rights organizations to take decisive action. He called for pressure on the Houthi militia to secure the immediate release of Sahar Al-Khulani and all other women held in secret detention. Furthermore, he advocated for the classification of the Houthi militia as a “global terrorist organization” and the pursuit of accountability for its leaders and members involved in these crimes.

In conclusion, the plight of Sahar Al-Khulani exemplifies the urgent need for international attention and action to protect the rights of women in Yemen and to hold those responsible for violations accountable.

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