The Iran-backed Houthis have freed three security officials linked to a bombing in Rada’a, Yemen, that killed 16 civilians. Their release has evoked anger among the victims’ families, especially after broken promises of accountability by the Houthis. This incident reflects broader human rights concerns regarding the Houthis’ treatment of civilians.
The Iran-backed Houthi movement has recently released three senior security officials implicated in the bombing of civilian homes in the Al-Hafrah neighborhood of Rada’a city, located in central Yemen’s Al-Bayda governorate. This bombing, which took place during Ramadan last year, resulted in the tragic deaths of 16 civilians, including women and children. The release has sparked significant outrage among the victims’ families and the local community one year after the bombings.
The individuals released have been identified as Mohammed Saleh Al-Awkabi (also known as “Abu Hussein Al-Harman”), who served as the former commander of central security and director of investigations in Rada’a; Abu Saleh Saran, the former security director of Rada’a districts; and Mujali Al-Jawfi, the former security director of the Wadi Rabea district. Notably, the release was authorized by Houthi leader Abdulmalik Al-Houthi, despite their alleged offenses constituting serious human rights violations against the residents of Al-Bayda.
This decision is perceived by many as a deliberate affront to the Rada’a community, particularly in light of recent images of the released officials being hosted by Abu Hussein Al-Arabji, the former police chief of Al-Bayda and a key suspect in the bombing. Previously, the Houthi leadership had assured the families of the victims that the responsible parties would be apprehended and held responsible; yet, this promise has seemingly been disregarded without any legal proceedings.
The bombing incident stemmed from a conflict between the Al-Zailai family and Houthi militias, leading to an attack on the family’s residence and subsequent destruction of neighboring homes, resulting in civilian fatalities. This event has drawn severe condemnation from both local and international observers.
Since taking control of Sanaa, the Houthis have been implicated in systematically targeting their adversaries. Human rights organizations have reported the destruction of nearly 900 homes across 16 governorates, illustrating a recurring pattern of violence directed at civilians.
The recent release of three Houthi officials associated with the bombing in Rada’a has incited outrage among the victims’ families and the local community, highlighting deep-seated grievances against the group. Despite earlier assurances to punish those responsible, the lack of accountability continues to fuel frustration. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by civilians in Yemen amidst persistent violence and human rights violations.
Original Source: www.khabaragency.net
