The Impact of Huthi Rule on Yemen’s Economy and Society

Introduction

With a floundering economy and growing restrictions on personal freedoms, 10 years of Huthi rule has left its mark on Yemen’s ancient capital, Sanaa, where some quietly long for how things once were.

The Huthis in Yemen

• The Huthis, a radical political-military group from Yemen’s northern mountains, have imposed strict rule over the large swathe of Yemen under their control, covering two-thirds of the population.
• Since the Iran-backed rebels took power in Sanaa in 2014, after long-running protests against the government, the country has regressed significantly.
  

  Economic and Social Impact
  

• Yemen, already the poorest country in the Arabian Peninsula, has been devastated by war since 2015, with a failed campaign by a Saudi-led coalition to dislodge the Huthis.
• Hundreds of thousands of people have died through fighting or indirect causes like hunger and disease, with much of the infrastructure in ruins.
• The country remains divided between the Huthis and the government, now based in the port city of Aden.
  

  Societal Changes
  

• Men and women are segregated in public, and Huthi slogans like "Death to America!" and "Death to Israel!" are plastered everywhere.
• Cases of activists, journalists, and political opponents being unjustly convicted have been documented, leading to a wave of arrests targeting aid workers.
  

  Cultural and Ideological Shifts
  

• The Huthis have tightened their control over many aspects of daily life, including revising school textbooks, changing the calendar, and altering traditional holidays.
• Support for the Huthis’ attacks against Israel and ships in the Red Sea, in solidarity with Palestinians, seems to be unanimous among the population.
  

  Personal Stories
  

• Individuals like Majed, who fled Sanaa for Aden and then sought refuge in Jordan, highlight the difficult choices faced by many Yemenis.
• Rim, who has been unable to return to Sanaa from Saudi Arabia, dreams of getting her life back and ensuring her children do not forget their Yemeni heritage.
  

  Conclusion
  

  Despite the challenges posed by the Huthi rule in Yemen, the resilience and determination of its people to preserve their cultural identity and yearn for a better future remain steadfast.

  Analysis:
  The rewritten article provides a comprehensive overview of the economic, social, and cultural impact of Huthi rule in Yemen, making the complex situation accessible to readers of all backgrounds. By incorporating personal stories and expert insights, the content becomes engaging and relatable, shedding light on the struggles faced by ordinary Yemenis. The structured format with headings and bullet points enhances readability and comprehension, allowing readers to grasp the key points effectively. Overall, the article effectively conveys the gravity of the situation in Yemen under Huthi control and underscores the importance of understanding such geopolitical dynamics for a broader global perspective.