Sana’a – A growing number of reports indicate that checkpoints operated by Houthi forces in northern Yemen have become dangerous traps for journalists, turning routine travel into a perilous gamble for media professionals.

According to a recent investigation by Human Rights Watch, journalists passing through Houthi-controlled areas face arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, and even torture. These checkpoints, once intended for security screening, are now being used to identify and target individuals affiliated with media outlets, especially those reporting on human rights violations and the ongoing conflict.

Several journalists have recounted being stopped, interrogated, and later detained without formal charges. In some cases, family members were also held to pressure journalists into silence. One Houthi official was quoted in the report saying, “We pray to God by torturing journalists,” underscoring the severity of the abuses.

Media institutions in Sana’a and other Houthi-held cities have been seized or shut down, forcing many journalists to flee the country or operate under pseudonyms. Those who remain have resorted to self-censorship, fearing retribution at the next checkpoint.

Human rights organizations are urging the international community to pressure all parties in Yemen to respect press freedom and release detained journalists. The systematic targeting of media professionals not only violates international law but also undermines efforts to achieve transparency and peace in the war-torn nation.