Houthi Forces Intensify Raids in Sana'a Under Pretext of 'Zakat Al-Fitr' Collection

Residents and local sources report that Houthi militias have launched extensive abduction campaigns in the Hozayz area, south of the Yemeni capital Sana'a, utilizing the collection of "Zakat Al-Fitr" funds as a justification as Ramadan nears its conclusion.

Local residents stated that armed militants affiliated with the militia forcibly entered several homes, alleging the occupants refused to pay the imposed sums. These raids and abductions were reportedly accompanied by acts of vandalism, including the smashing of doors and windows, generating widespread anxiety and discontent among the populace.

These developments occur amidst mounting criticism directed at the militia from residents and activists who accuse the group of resorting to coercion and intimidation to extract various levies across areas under their control, particularly given the severely deteriorated economic conditions and soaring poverty rates.

The capital, Sana'a, and extensive territories controlled by the militia have been grappling with a severe economic crisis for years. This situation has been exacerbated by the prolonged halt in salary payments for a significant number of public sector employees, rendering any additional financial burdens an increasing strain on the population, according to local reports and human rights organizations.