Houthis and the Manipulation of Aid in Yemen’s Conflict

Yemen's Houthis, lionized abroad for missile strikes on Israel, face accusations of abusing food aid and imposing severe conditions on civilians. Allegations include silencing critics and recruiting child soldiers. Meanwhile, Iran-backed fighters leverage the Gaza conflict to enhance their reputation while human rights abuses persist at home.

The Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen, applauded globally for their missile attacks on Israel, are accused of exploiting international aid and enforcing severe living conditions. Civilians allege forced child soldier recruitment and silencing critiques, casting a shadow over the group's reputation.

Despite global stature, internal Yemeni narratives paint a grim picture of the Houthis' governance. Reports from displaced citizens speak of crushing taxes, manipulated aid systems, and repressive measures aimed at maintaining control in the Houthi stronghold.

As Yemen grapples with food insecurity exacerbated by the Houthi's management of aid, the group leverages its anti-American and anti-Israeli stance. Yet, the persistent grievances among suffering Yemenis reveal the stark contrast between international perception and domestic reality.

(With inputs from agencies.)