Houthis Photo: depositphotos
Arab media report an increase in religious radicalism in the cities and provinces of Yemen under Houthi control. Local militants are arresting artists, musicians, and wedding hall owners, particularly by banning singing at public events.
Incident in Amran Province
As reported by Israelinfo, one of the recent incidents occurred in Amran Province, north of Sana’a, the capital of Yemen. Houthi militants kidnapped three girls who earned a living by singing, claiming that singing is prohibited in the province. The three singers, along with their mother, traveled from Sana’a to Amran to perform at a festive event. However, as they were leaving the venue, a group of Houthis intercepted them at the gate and detained them until they promised not to sing in Amran anymore.
This incident was not an isolated case. After the women left Amran, they were arrested in another Houthi-controlled locality and placed in central prison for violating the singing ban.
Mass Arrests of Artists
Recently, Houthis, under the orders of one of their leaders, Abdulaziz Abu, kidnapped and imprisoned 15 singers, musicians, sound engineers, and wedding hall owners. The arrests affect not only women but also men. According to local sources, artists were kidnapped from their homes and at Houthi checkpoints, and some were abducted directly from weddings where they performed. The militants justified their actions by stating that the arrested individuals refused to comply with the order banning songs at events and weddings in Amran.
Cultural and Social Isolation
Houthis prohibit singing not only in Amran but also in many other areas under their control, increasing the level of religious fanaticism and cultural isolation. Their actions resemble the practices of the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, ISIS, and other terrorist groups.
In 2018, Houthis issued a circular to public and private schools in Sana’a and the provinces under their control, banning singing and musical performances during school celebrations, stating that prior permission is required to hold events.
Events in Yemen raise concerns about the rise of religious radicalism and the violation of artists’ rights. Houthis continue to repress cultural life, deepening social and cultural isolation.
