Barran Press
The Houthi group, designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, has abducted Yemeni activist Sahar Abdullah Al-Khawlani in Sana'a. The abduction is believed to be a direct response to a video Al-Khawlani posted on X a post, seen by "Barran Press", where she publicly criticized the group's rampant corruption.
In the video, which has gone viral, Al-Khawlani revealed that her tuition fees for a master's degree in Sana'a amounted to a staggering 1.2 million Yemeni riyals (old currency). She also alleged that her daughter's school fees were stolen after just two weeks of attendance, claiming that the Houthis prioritize their own salaries and followers while denying education to the Yemeni people.
The Houthis stormed Al-Khawlani's home in Sana'a, taking her away from her children and imprisoning her. This act of intimidation is seen as a clear attempt to silence her criticism and discourage other Yemenis from speaking out against the group's abuses.
Yemen's Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Muammar Al-Eryani, condemned the abduction, stating, "The Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist militia's abduction of media personality and humanitarian activist Sahar Al-Khawlani from her home and her forced disappearance, following her commentary on the difficult living conditions of citizens, is a prime example of the tragedy facing Yemeni women in areas under the militia's control. It highlights the systematic oppression, crimes, and violations they face."
Al-Khawlani's abduction is a stark reminder of the escalating crackdown on dissent and freedom of expression in Houthi-controlled areas. It raises serious concerns about the safety and well-being of Yemeni citizens, particularly those who dare to speak out against the group's oppressive regime.