Taiz political tensions rise amid weapon theft allegations and Houthi advances

Political and military tensions are escalating in Taiz, Yemen, involving accusations against Islah Party leaders regarding the misappropriation of weapons and shifting regional alliances.

Journalist Naif Hassan has accused Islah Party leaders, including Hamoud Saeed al-Mikhlafi and Abdu Farhan al-Mikhlafi (known as Salem al-Dust), of seizing weapons previously provided by the Saudi-led coalition. These weapons were allegedly moved from warehouses near the Yafars area to support a fundraising campaign intended to purchase new arms for fighters. Hassan further linked these actions to the loss of territory in the Al-Hujariya region to Houthi forces.

Simultaneously, reports indicate that Islah-aligned forces in Taiz are facing pressure from both Houthi advances on the city's outskirts and shifting regional dynamics. Pro-coalition elites have accused the party of accelerating negotiations with Houthi forces to secure its position against Southern factions supported by Saudi Arabia. While Islah leaders have reportedly proposed withdrawing heavy weapons and funds to Aden or Lahj, they face challenges regarding Saudi support and potential opposition from Southern groups.