The Minister of Information condemns the abduction of journalist Sahar Al-Khulani and her children, urging a strong international stance against Houthi crimes.

Minister Condemns Abduction of Journalist Sahar Al-Khulani

The Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Moammar Al-Eryani, has strongly condemned the abduction of journalist and civil activist Sahar Al-Khulani, along with her husband and children, by Iranian-backed Houthi militias. This incident occurred following the storming of her home last Sunday.

A New Addition to a Dark Record

In a press statement, Al-Eryani described this crime as a troubling addition to the Houthis’ already notorious record. He emphasized that this act reflects the oppressive nature of the group, which does not hesitate to target women and children, invade homes, and instill fear in innocent civilians. Such actions aim to silence free voices and break the community’s spirit.

A Pattern of Targeting Journalists

Al-Eryani pointed out that this heinous act continues a disturbing trend of Houthi aggression against journalists and activists. He reminded the public that Sahar Al-Khulani had previously faced abduction and enforced disappearance on September 10, 2024. She remained in detention with her children until February 5, 2025, simply for fulfilling her professional and humanitarian duty to highlight the suffering of citizens. Al-Khulani resisted pressures and threats aimed at silencing her criticism of the dire economic and living conditions in Houthi-controlled areas.

Systematic Abuse of Women

The minister asserted that Al-Khulani’s recent abduction underscores the Houthis’ systematic policy of targeting Yemeni women, as well as Yemenis in general. He noted that hundreds of female journalists and activists have faced arrest, harassment, torture, and enforced disappearance during the years of the Houthi coup. These actions represent a desperate attempt to restrict their freedoms, exclude them from public life, and punish them for their peaceful activism, violating fundamental human values and international agreements.

Call for International Action

Al-Eryani highlighted that the ongoing nature of these crimes without accountability has emboldened the Houthis to continue their terrorist practices. This situation has fostered an environment of impunity, necessitating a firmer and clearer international stance. He called for actions that go beyond mere expressions of concern to implement deterrent measures that would halt this ongoing human rights and humanitarian crisis.

Urgent Appeal to the International Community

The minister urged the international community, the United Nations, and human rights organizations to fulfill their legal and moral responsibilities. He called for immediate action to stop the systematic violations committed by the Houthi militia and to pressure for the unconditional release of Sahar Al-Khulani, her family, and all those forcibly detained in Houthi prisons.

A Call for Global Solidarity

Al-Eryani reiterated his appeal to the United Kingdom and other nations to take a clear and decisive stance. He urged them to follow the United States in designating the Houthi militias as a terrorist organization. He believes this step is essential for protecting civilians, cutting off sources of terrorism, and putting an end to the daily crimes that innocent civilians pay for.

The situation remains critical, and the international community’s response will be pivotal in addressing these ongoing human rights violations in Yemen.

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