Saada –Residents of the Al-Safra District in Saada Governorate have expressed mounting anger over a large-scale campaign by the Houthi group to confiscate private property under the pretext of expanding a religious events area known as the “Al-Rasoul Al-Azam Square.”

According to local reports, armed Houthi forces and heavy machinery were deployed in the “Mahatat Al-Kharsah” area to demolish at least seven residential homes and commercial shops without prior legal notice or compensation. 

The move, which aims to widen the square by 30 to 40 square meters, has displaced families and shut down vital sources of livelihood.

Witnesses allege that dozens of residents were coerced into signing land relinquishment documents, while others who refused were arrested. One shop owner stated that his store was leveled “without even a chance to remove inventory.”

Civil society voices have condemned the campaign as a form of collective punishment and property rights violation, especially given past incidents where Houthis seized lands—such as in Gholfaqan—promising temporary use for religious events, only to retain the property permanently and block owners’ access.

Despite residents' appeals, no official intervention or legal review has taken place, deepening fears that such seizures will continue unchecked.