After Reports of Transferring Leadership Powers to His Uncle, Divisions Escalate Within Houthi Leadership

Disputes within the leadership of the Houthi militia have intensified following reports that the group’s leader, Abdul-Malik Al-Houthi, has issued instructions to transfer all his powers to his uncle, Abdul-Karim Al-Houthi, the Minister of Interior in the internationally unrecognized Sanaa government.

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According to two credible sources who spoke to Khabar Agency, Abdul-Malik Al-Houthi issued “highly confidential” directives granting his uncle full responsibility for managing the group. He also emphasized holding Abdul-Karim accountable in case of any communication breakdown with him for any reason. This decision effectively makes Abdul-Karim Al-Houthi the primary authority over all organizational and political affairs of the militia.

This unexpected decision has sparked discontent from senior leader Abu Ali Al-Hakem, head of the militia’s military intelligence and regarded as the group’s second-in-command. According to the sources, Al-Hakem, known for his pivotal military role in the coup and control over vast territories, views the decision as familial favoritism and internal discrimination within the group, which has escalated tensions, according to the local outlet Al-Muntasaf.

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Observers suggest that this development reflects increasing divisions within the group, particularly in light of the internal and external challenges it faces. The escalation of internal conflicts is expected to destabilize the group and weaken its ability to manage political and field operations in Yemen.

For years, the Houthi militia has been plagued by severe disputes among its leaders over control of tax collections and looted revenues, with growing competition for influential positions in strategic areas.

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According to observers, these conflicts mainly revolve around taxation, aid looting, and the exploitation of institutions, compounded by familial favoritism that privileges those close to the militia leader. These tensions highlight deepening internal divisions that threaten to undermine the group’s cohesion and its ability to govern the areas under its control.

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