The Iran-backed Houthis have released three senior officials linked to a bombing that killed 16 civilians in Rada’a, Yemen, during Ramadan last year. This decision, ordered by Houthi leader Abdulmalik Al-Houthi, has led to widespread outrage among victims’ families and local residents, especially following promises of accountability. Critics view this release as part of a broader pattern of targeting civilians by the Houthis.
The Iran-backed Houthis have released three senior security officials implicated in the bombing of civilian homes in Rada’a, Al-Bayda governorate during Ramadan last year. This attack resulted in the deaths of 16 civilians, including women and children, and the release of the officials has provoked considerable outrage among local residents and victims’ families.
The released officials are identified as Mohammed Saleh Al-Awkabi, known as “Abu Hussein Al-Harman,” a former commander of central security and investigations director in Rada’a; Abu Saleh Saran, the former security director of Rada’a districts; and Mujali Al-Jawfi, the former security director of Wadi Rabea district. Their release was reportedly ordered by Houthi leader Abdulmalik Al-Houthi despite allegations of significant human rights violations.
The decision has been perceived as a deliberate affront to the people of Rada’a, compounded by the recent images of the released leaders being welcomed by former police chief Abu Hussein Al-Arabji, a key suspect in the bombing. The families of the victims had been assured that justice would be served, yet the lack of legal proceedings further exacerbates the community’s frustration.
The bombing stemmed from a conflict involving the Al-Zailai family and Houthi militias, leading to the destruction of homes and loss of innocent lives. The incident has been condemned by both local and international observers. Since gaining control of Sanaa, the Houthis have faced accusations of systematically targeting opposition and are responsible for extensive violence against civilians, including the documented destruction of nearly 900 homes across 16 governorates.
The release of the three Houthi officials implicated in the deadly bombing in Rada’a has ignited significant local outrage and concerns about justice for the victims. Their release raises questions about the Houthi leadership’s commitment to human rights and accountability. Given the history of the Houthis’ actions following their takeover in Sanaa, this incident reflects a troubling pattern of impunity and disregard for civilian lives.
Original Source: www.khabaragency.net