Houthi Leader Seizes Disputed Land in Hajjah Amid Judicial Orders

A prominent Houthi militia leader has reportedly seized a disputed piece of land in Hajjah Governorate, northern Yemen, amidst allegations of disregarding judicial decisions and exploiting official influence.

Local sources identified the leader as Abu Muhammad Al-Qasimi, who allegedly assumes the role of Hajjah's security director. The seizure was reportedly carried out with support from directives issued by the group's Endowments Authority, despite judicial orders from the "Al-Shahil" court mandating the continuation of the dispute's consideration without resolution.

The land, located in the Hadiah Al-Ghumayrah area of Al-Shahil district, spans approximately three "habals" (a local unit of measurement). Its owner, citizen Yahya Murad, asserts that he has possessed the land for over six decades. However, the Endowments Authority is reportedly seeking to expropriate it for other parties.

Local witnesses reported that the operation involved significant pressure, including armed deployment, security threats, and actions described as extortion, aimed at compelling the owner to vacate the property despite ongoing legal objections. Sources further indicated that directives were issued by Houthi leaders, including Adel Al-Qanis, Abdul Majeed Al-Houthi, and Zaid Al-Houthi, to dispose of the land and lease it to a new investor associated with a real estate company known as "Gimra."

This incident occurs within a context of increasing accusations against the Iran-backed Houthi militia concerning the appropriation of citizens' lands, particularly those belonging to endowments. Reports suggest that influential leaders are exploiting their positions to redistribute these lands to affiliated investors.