Houthi-appointed security commander killed in western Yemen

A senior security commander appointed by the Houthi movement was killed during a security operation in western Yemen, an incident that has triggered escalating tensions in Al Mahwit governorate for a second consecutive day.

Majali Askar Fakhr al-Din, the Central Security Commander for Al Mahwit province, was shot dead during a security campaign in Al-Rajm district, according to Al Arabiya. 

The shooting reportedly occurred in the village of Beit al-Jabali after a confrontation between residents and members of the security force.

Local accounts say a resident opened fire during the operation, killing Fakhr al-Din at the scene before fleeing the area. Houthi authorities subsequently sent reinforcements from the capital, Sana’a, to Al-Rajm district, surrounding the village and launching search operations to locate the suspect.

The circumstances leading to the shooting remain disputed. Local sources described the security campaign as having generated tension among residents, while independent verification of the details has been limited.

The local authority aligned with Yemen’s internationally recognised government condemned the developments in Al-Rajm district, accusing Houthi forces of committing violations against civilians during subsequent operations. The statement called for documentation of the events and for pressure to prevent further escalation.

By Sabina Mammadli