Sana'a - Amnesty International has revealed a disturbing wave of repression carried out by Houthi de facto authorities in Yemen, targeting dozens of civilians who peacefully commemorated the anniversary of the September 26 Revolution through public gatherings and social media posts.

Details of the Crackdown

- On September 26, Yemenis across cities like Sana’a, Ibb, and Hodeidah took to the streets waving national flags and sharing celebratory messages online to mark the 1962 revolution that established the Yemen Arab Republic.

- In response, Houthi forces launched mass arrests, detaining scores of demonstrators, including activists, lawyers, and even minors, for what Amnesty described as peaceful expressions of national pride.

- Victims reported being physically assaulted, having their flags confiscated, and facing harsh detention conditions. Some were forced to sign confessions and pay fines exceeding $400 to secure release.

Human Rights Violations

- Amnesty International condemned the arrests as a flagrant violation of the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of all detainees.

- The SAM Organization for Rights and Liberties also documented the crackdown, noting that Houthis used arbitrary charges like “inciting strife” to justify detentions, and subjected detainees to psychological and physical torture.

Broader Implications

- Rights groups warn that the Houthis view the September 26 celebrations as a threat to their legitimacy, rooted in a political-religious ideology that contrasts with the revolution’s republican values.

- The crackdown reflects a deepening divide over Yemen’s national identity, and signals the Houthis’ intent to suppress dissent and control public discourse in territories under their rule.

This revelation adds to growing international concern over the deteriorating human rights situation in Yemen, as calls intensify for accountability and protection of civil liberties.