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July 03, 2025 – Yemen –
Yemen has witnessed a dramatic escalation in crackdowns on journalists across multiple conflict zones. Reporters Without Borders (RSF), the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), and other human rights groups have condemned the wave of arrests and abductions, demanding the immediate release of detained media workers.
RSF reports that journalist Mozahim Bajaber, editor of Hadramout’s Al-Ahqaf Media platform, has been held for over two weeks despite an Interior Ministry order to release him. His arrest on June 18 followed social media posts critical of corruption in Hadramout’s leadership. Separately, at least seven journalists were abducted by Houthi rebel forces in mid-May during raids in Hodeidah.
The issuance of arrest warrants by the state’s Specialized Criminal Court in Hadramout for Bajaber and colleague Sabri Ben Makhashen also prompted disturbing concerns about the misuse of judicial power. These warrants—based on undefined charges—violate Article 13 of Yemen’s Press and Publications Law, which protects journalists’ opinions.
CPJ strongly denounced Bajaber’s detention in Aden-controlled territory, labeling it part of a worsening trend by the internationally recognized government (IRG) to suppress dissent. The organization calls for his immediate release and respect for press freedoms.
The broader context is alarming. RSF notes that nine journalists are currently imprisoned in Yemen—eight under Houthi captivity—undergoing persecution, torture, or unfair sentencing. One victim, journalist Mohammad Mayahi, was sentenced to 18 months in a Houthi court in September 2024. Houthi forces have used “judicial systems as tools of repression,” RSF warns, urging unconditional releases.
These detentions and legal actions reflect a systematic effort by all Yemeni factions—including the IRG, Houthis, and Southern Transitional Council—to silence journalistic scrutiny. The judicial targeting of journalists fosters fear, self-censorship, and weakened public accountability in a country already beset by civil war since 2014.
Reference –
Authorities arrest journalist on unknown charges in central Yemen
