Media: Houthi regime intensifies security crackdown as US airstrikes escalate

Intensive US airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas and leaks about a potential ground operation by Yemeni government forces have prompted the "Ansar Allah" group to tighten security in its controlled regions.

These measures, aimed at bolstering defences, have impacted the military, security, economic, social, tribal, media, and healthcare sectors, Caliber.Az reports citing Al-Araby Al-Jadeed.

Witnesses reported that the Houthis have launched a campaign targeting street vendors, arresting and preventing their return to business, citing security concerns. This operation, primarily focused in Dhamar, south of Sanaa, is part of broader measures aimed at countering infiltrations across multiple domains.

Sources close to the Houthis revealed that these security actions, which began last year, have escalated following the start of US military operations in March. The Houthis are particularly concerned about the potential for technical infiltrations similar to those experienced by Hezbollah, and have confiscated devices emitting waves or signals. They’ve also banned certain smart applications, removed surveillance cameras from streets, and reverted to older communication technology.

The Houthis have intensified surveillance of citizens, forcing them to attend "cultural lectures" focused on security and war mobilisation. Participation is mandatory, with threats for non-compliance. Additionally, the group has stepped up monitoring of communications and is spying on leadership figures in allied parties and tribes, fearing potential defections.

The Houthis have also imposed strict surveillance on those frequently travelling between their controlled areas and government-held regions, with increased checks on vehicles entering their territories from government areas.

Further, the Houthis are targeting women’s gatherings, conducting raids, and imposing ideological lectures in schools and universities. They’ve also cracked down on those sharing information about US airstrikes, arresting those who leak videos of attacks to prevent the spread of information regarding the effectiveness of these strikes.

Additionally, the Houthis have imposed tight control over the financial sector, preventing large transfers and seizing deposits, claiming concerns over funds being smuggled to Aden or abroad. These actions have escalated in response to US sanctions and pressure from the Yemeni government.

By Aghakazim Guliyev