Houthi Leader Resumes Seizure of Military Site Land in Ibb

A prominent Houthi leader has resumed efforts to seize land belonging to a former military headquarters in Ibb Governorate, Yemen, approximately two years after initial attempts were halted due to widespread opposition. Heavy machinery has been deployed to clear and level the site under the pretext of establishing an investment project.

Local sources reported that heavy equipment affiliated with Houthi leader Fares Mannaa began excavating trees and leveling the ground at the former Central Security Forces command in the Jabalat intersection area of Ibb city on Monday. This action is reportedly a precursor to new construction within the site, which the militia claims has been leased for a recreational project.

The sources confirmed that these recent maneuvers have revived concerns about a permanent appropriation of the site. They indicated that the so-called lease agreement may serve as a mere formality to transfer control of the land to influential militia leaders for division, a pattern observed in similar cases where announced investment projects have failed to materialize over years.

According to the sources, the Houthi militia had initiated procedures to hand over the military headquarters' land to Fares Mannaa nearly two years ago. However, a significant wave of media and public criticism compelled the militia to temporarily suspend the plan.

These developments occur amid persistent accusations against the Houthi militia of appropriating state lands and properties in areas under their control. Many of these assets have allegedly been converted into private or investment projects benefiting influential militia leaders, sparking widespread local discontent and intensifying fears of further unlawful disposal of public assets.