Urdu Report Desk
Yemen’s Houthi movement has adopted a new strategy in its conflict with Saudi Arabia, using allegations linked to Jeffrey Epstein and financial scandals to undermine the kingdom’s reputation, according to a report by The New York Times.
Rather than relying solely on conventional weapons such as missiles and drones, the group is using media and online platforms to promote its narrative and draw international attention to allegations involving the Saudi royal family.
The newspaper reported that the Houthis have recently used documents released by the US Department of Justice concerning Epstein to support their campaign. Claims circulating in this context allege that individuals close to the Saudi royal family sent pieces of the Kaaba’s covering to Epstein as gifts.
These allegations have become part of the Houthis’ broader messaging against Saudi Arabia, which supports Yemen’s internationally recognised government. The claims have not been independently established in the supplied report.
Videos, Songs and Social Media Drive the Campaign
According to The New York Times, the campaign uses public statements, videos, speeches, songs and social media influencers to amplify the allegations and subject Saudi Arabia to international criticism.
The newspaper reported that the campaign has intensified since the conflict resumed. Through this messaging, the Houthi leadership is seeking to portray itself as a defender of Islam against external forces.
Claims Link Epstein Controversy to Alleged Threats Against Mecca
Last month, Saudi Arabia accused the Houthis of attempting to target Mecca with drones and missiles. The Houthi movement strongly denied the allegation.
Houthi President Mahdi al-Mashat referred to the Epstein controversy in a statement, saying: “Those who gave Epstein the covering of the Kaaba are the same people targeting Mecca.”
According to The New York Times, Saudi authorities have not issued an official response to the Epstein-related files released by the US Department of Justice earlier this year or to the allegations promoted by the Houthis.
Yemeni Influencers and Musicians Amplify the Message
Houthi-aligned platforms have been actively promoting the narrative. Yemeni comedian Mustafa al-Momari, who has more than 2.7 million social media followers, has published a video addressing the issue.
A traditional Yemeni musician has also produced a song based on the claims.
The report says al-Momari shifted from opposing the Houthis to supporting them after his release from prison in 2023. He has also criticised Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Houthi Leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi Invokes Epstein
Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi has also referred to Epstein in his speeches, claiming that the files expose what he describes as a Zionist environment that shapes global leaders and influential elites.
The remarks form part of the movement’s wider effort to connect the Epstein controversy with its criticism of Saudi Arabia and other international actors.
NYT Reports Influence Beyond Yemen
The New York Times reported that the strategy appears to be gaining traction in some circles outside Yemen.
According to the newspaper, American right-wing podcaster Jack Shields has praised the Houthis in the context of the Epstein files and expressed support for the movement.
The report illustrates how allegations surrounding Epstein are being incorporated into political messaging that extends beyond the conflict itself, reaching international political discussions and social media audiences.
