Yemen Ministry of Defense declares Houthi gatherings legitimate military targets

The Yemeni Ministry of Defense has issued a stern warning to residents living in areas under Houthi control, declaring that participation in certain mass gatherings will be treated as legitimate military targets.

In an official statement, the Ministry urged citizens to refrain from attending events such as “tribal nakf” (traditional tribal mobilizations), mass rallies, and “cultural courses.” The Ministry accused the Houthi group of exploiting these traditional social customs and public activities to recruit children, youth, and misled citizens to serve their combat operations and military agendas.

The warning follows a recent Houthi attack on a security training center in Shabwah province, which reportedly killed 75 soldiers and injured approximately 200 others. The Ministry emphasized that these gatherings are being monitored and are viewed as centers for logistical and military support for the Houthi militia, placing participants in direct danger.