The past few weeks have witnessed a noticeable and unprecedented absence of first- and second-tier Houthi leaders from the group's "general mobilization" events and public activities in areas under its control in Yemen. Informed sources and observers of Yemeni affairs attribute this sudden disappearance to a state of "security panic" and growing fears of being targeted or assassinated by Israel, against the backdrop of the ongoing escalation in the region.
The repercussions of regional escalation on Houthi movements
This radical shift in the behavior of the Houthi leadership is a direct result of developments in the Middle East conflict, particularly since the group's involvement in the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab attacks in solidarity with Gaza. Following a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting vital sites in the port of Hodeidah, in addition to targeted assassinations carried out by Israel against prominent figures in the "axis of resistance" in Lebanon and Iran, Houthi leaders have come to perceive a genuine threat to their personal safety. Reports indicate that the group has imposed strict security measures on its leaders' movements, including limiting public appearances, changing residences regularly, and refraining from using communication devices that could be vulnerable to hacking and tracking.
Absence affects the morale of the "mobilization"
The Houthi group has long relied on the on-the-ground presence of its leaders at mobilization events to boost the morale of its followers and urge tribes to send fighters to the front lines. However, their current absence has left a clear void in these events, which are now limited to marginal figures or conducted via recorded speeches and television broadcasts, leading to a decline in public engagement. Analysts believe this disappearance reflects the success of intelligence and military deterrence in disrupting the Houthi leadership, which now prioritizes its personal security above all propaganda and political considerations.
Historical and security context
Since the Houthis seized control of Sana'a, their leadership had been operating with relative freedom. However, their direct entry into the conflict with international and regional powers, and their designation as a threat to international navigation, have altered the rules of engagement. Current concerns stem not only from their air capabilities, but also from the intelligence penetrations in which Israel has demonstrated superiority during its recent operations in the region. This has led Houthi leaders to realize that they are not immune from targeting, even within their fortified strongholds.
