The Era of Qarmatians is Over, Houthis

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 17, 2026

The Houthi movement declared the end of sectarian conflicts resembling the Qarmatian era and condemned any attacks on Islam's holiest sites, warning such actions would unite Muslims against the aggressors. By emphasizing respect for the Two Holy Mosques and highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing political and military influence, the statement signals continued regional power tensions and the potential for escalated defense coalitions like the Makkah Alliance.

The Houthi movement asserted that the era of the Qarmatians—an early Islamic sect known for its violence—is definitively over and will not return. Addressing the Iranian government and its alleged Houthi proxy forces, the group emphasized that current conflicts are not rooted in sectarian or religious divisions, reflecting changes in global dynamics and Muslim communities' attitudes.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Houthis stressed that even Shia Muslims who oppose the Iranian regime would not support a sectarian war to serve Tehran’s interests. The group specifically condemned any Houthi attack targeting Makkah, Saudi Arabia's holiest city, describing such an act as a confrontation against approximately 1.5 billion Muslims from diverse sects and schools of thought. It warned that jeopardizing the security of the Two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Medina constitutes a "red line" respected by Muslims worldwide.

The statement called out attempts to threaten religious sites as not only disgraceful but also a violation of both humanity and core spiritual values. It highlighted that historically, sanctuaries and religious sites have been treated as inviolable, regardless of prevailing political or ideological conflicts.

The Houthis further critiqued the ideology driving the Iranian government and its affiliates, asserting that despite their use of Islamic language and symbols, their agenda lacks true religious foundation. Instead, the group accused Tehran’s policy of undermining faith and religious belief as a whole.

In contrast, the statement praised Saudi Arabia's economic and strategic standing, noting the kingdom’s massive oil reserves—estimated at 268.5 billion barrels—and recent discoveries of rare minerals and uranium deposits totaling 114 million tons. It emphasized Riyadh’s expanding political and military influence, particularly highlighting the formation of the "Makkah Alliance," a coalition aimed at strengthening Saudi Arabia’s defense against threats from groups such as the Houthis.

Overall, the Houthi message sought to delineate a shift away from past sectarian conflicts, asserting that attempts to destabilize the security of sacred Islamic sites will provoke a unified Muslim response. The statement reflected ongoing tensions in the region, underscoring the complex interplay between religious symbolism, political alliances, and regional power struggles.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.