Prominent Tribal Sheikh Assassinated Outside Radaa Courthouse

A prominent tribal leader and member of the General People's Congress's Permanent Committee was assassinated in Radaa, Al Bayda Governorate, central Yemen.

Tribal gunmen reportedly opened fire on Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Al Masoudi directly in front of the Radaa courthouse, resulting in his immediate death. A tribal source described the attack as premeditated and instigated by the Houthi militia.

The source suggested that the assassination may be linked to an old tribal feud, which the militia allegedly exploited to eliminate Al Masoudi. This act has sparked widespread anger and discontent among tribal communities.

Sheikh Al Masoudi was a significant tribal and social figure in Qayfa, actively involved in resolving local disputes. He also held a key political position within the General People's Congress, establishing him as an influential personality in his tribal sphere.

This incident occurs amidst escalating tensions in the governorate. The victim's family has reportedly faced a series of Houthi violations in recent times, including the killing of one of his sons and the abduction of another, following the militia's raid on the village of Al Masoud in Qayfa.

The source further indicated that Sheikh Al Masoudi's home had previously been subjected to systematic attacks by the militia. These attacks included drone strikes, extensive looting of property, money, and gold jewelry, as well as the destruction of the family's farms and artesian well pumps.