Internal Houthi movement power struggles

Internal instability has surfaced within the Houthi movement, characterized by allegations of personal threats and systemic power struggles.

In late August 2026, leader Abdulsalam Jahaf reported receiving threats of “physical liquidation” and being the target of coordinated smear campaigns by influential members. Jahaf requested an urgent investigative committee from Abdulmalik al-Houthi to address these defamation efforts, which he claims have targeted his family since 2016. He also accused leadership of regionalism, alleging that certain officials incited hospitals to deny medical care to his son.

By early September 2026, Ali al-Qahoum, a member of the Houthi political bureau, publicly acknowledged these deep divisions, describing the internal state as a “cold war of attrition.” Al-Qahoum cited intense competition over financial resources and decision-making authority, attributing the fractures to a “sophisticated Afash lobby” loyal to the late Ali Abdullah Saleh. He claimed these networks use misinformation and closed-door sessions to marginalize certain members and manipulate leadership, which he warned threatens the stability of the organization.