Local sources in Yemen’s Al-Bayda province have reported that Houthi forces are refusing to release the bodies of 15 men from the Hanakah Al-Masoud tribe, who were recently killed in the city of Rada’a under unclear circumstances.

According to tribal leaders and residents, the victims were allegedly detained and later killed by Houthi-affiliated forces. Despite repeated appeals from the families and community elders, the group has declined to return the bodies for burial, deepening tensions between the tribe and the de facto authorities in the area.

The incident has sparked outrage among local communities, who view the refusal as a violation of tribal customs and humanitarian norms. “Denying families the right to bury their loved ones is an act of cruelty and provocation,” said one tribal elder, calling on mediators and humanitarian organizations to intervene.

While the Houthis have not issued an official statement regarding the deaths or the reasons for withholding the bodies, sources suggest the group may be using the remains as leverage in ongoing disputes or as a form of collective punishment.

The standoff has raised fears of renewed tribal unrest in Rada’a, a historically volatile region where tribal alliances and grievances play a significant role in the broader conflict dynamics. Observers warn that such incidents risk further destabilizing local security and undermining efforts to foster reconciliation.

Human rights advocates have condemned the move, urging all parties to respect the dignity of the dead and the rights of grieving families. The United Nations and international humanitarian agencies have yet to comment on the case.