Aden — Yemen’s Ministry of Interior has announced the arrest of several individuals suspected of operating within covert cells affiliated with the Houthi militia, including foreign nationals holding dual Lebanese and Syrian citizenship. 

The arrests took place in the southern governorate of Aden, a key stronghold of the internationally recognized government.

According to a statement released by the ministry, security forces detained a group of suspects comprising both Yemeni citizens and foreign operatives believed to be coordinating subversive activities on behalf of the Iran-backed Houthis. The Lebanese-Syrian nationals were reportedly involved in logistical support and intelligence gathering, raising concerns over cross-border networks aiding the militia’s operations in government-controlled areas.

Preliminary investigations suggest the cell was engaged in surveillance, recruitment, and the dissemination of propaganda aimed at destabilizing local institutions. Authorities also seized electronic devices and encrypted communication tools during the raid, which are currently under forensic examination.

“The presence of foreign operatives within Houthi-linked cells represents a dangerous escalation and a violation of Yemen’s sovereignty,” the ministry stated, emphasizing its commitment to dismantling hostile networks and safeguarding national security.

The arrests come amid heightened tensions and renewed efforts by the Yemeni government to counter Houthi infiltration in liberated territories. Security officials have called for increased regional cooperation to monitor foreign involvement and prevent the expansion of militia influence beyond their northern strongholds.