Houthi authorities in Yemen have arbitrarily arrested over 20 Christians in the past three months. Many were taken from their homes or the streets without arrest warrants, and most have not been able to contact their families. Some detainees have health conditions that require medical care, but it is unclear if they are receiving it. The arrests have mostly occurred in Sanaa, Ibb, and other areas under Houthi control, with some detention happening on Christmas Eve. The Houthis have a history of targeting religious minorities, including Christians, Jews, and Baha’is, as well as journalists, human rights defenders, and civil society members. Arbitrary detention and enforced disappearances are serious crimes under international law. Yemen’s Christian community has declined sharply due to conflict and persecution. Human rights groups are calling on the Houthis to release the detainees and respect the rights of minorities. Critics say the Houthis’ actions contradict their claims of defending justice and freedom.

Sovereign LORD, we pray for Your divine intervention in the nation of Yemen. Let Your justice and peace dominate in this country against all suppression from man and the evil one. In the Majestic Name of our Savior, Jesus Christ’s Name, Amen (The Holy Bible, Psalm 9:7-8).

Merciful Father, bring deliverance for the people of Yemen, especially Christians and other minorities, and restore hope and peace to them (The Holy Bible, Psalm 34:18).

Father GOD, we pray for Your divine protection and presence for all the believers in Yemen from all violence. We pray for the immediate release and safe return of the imprisoned Christians in the country (The Holy Bible, Exodus 14:14).

News Source: Human Rights Watch

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