Yemen's Houthi authorities delay wheat farmer payments, sparking protests in Sana'a

Wheat farmers from Al‑Jawf province resumed an open sit‑in in Sana’a, the capital controlled by Houthi militia, demanding payment for the 2025‑26 wheat harvest they delivered to the public grain institute. The protesters said a deadline set after a four‑day sit‑in on 23 June passed without the promised disbursement, despite earlier assurances from the Houthi‑run Ministry of Agriculture.

Farmers allege they handed over the full harvest under pre‑signed contracts, yet the financial value remains unpaid, leaving stored grain at risk of spoilage. The lack of cash has halted diesel purchases, stopped tractors and other equipment, and left fields unploughed, threatening the current season’s output and national food‑security prospects. Experts warn the payment delay could reduce wheat cultivation in a region that supplies a major share of Yemen’s grain.

The demonstrators warned they could expand their protests if the authorities do not honor the pledged payments and input support.