Yemeni Houthi fighters chew qat leaves ahead of Saudi operations

Recent photographs of Houthi fighters participating in missile and drone strikes against Saudi targets, including the capital Riyadh, have drawn attention to a distinctive practice among the militants: the chewing of qat leaves. The green leaves visibly packed in the cheeks of numerous fighters point to a longstanding Yemeni custom that has persisted despite the country's ongoing conflict.

Qat, a plant native to the Horn of Africa and Arabian Peninsula, contains mild stimulant properties and has been consumed in Yemen and neighboring regions for centuries. The leaves are typically chewed throughout the day, producing a mild euphoric effect and increased alertness. In Yemeni society, qat chewing has traditionally served both social and cultural functions, often accompanying gatherings and discussions.

The practice remains widespread across Yemen despite the country's severe economic hardships and civil conflict. For many Yemenis, including military personnel and fighters, qat consumption continues as a cultural norm rather than an anomaly. The visibility of the habit among Houthi combatants reflects the normalization of the custom across all segments of Yemeni society, even amid the escalating military operations against Saudi Arabia.

The renewed military tensions between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia have intensified in recent weeks, with the Iranian-aligned group claiming responsibility for multiple attacks on Saudi installations. These operations have brought international attention to various aspects of Houthi fighters' conduct and practices, including their use of traditional stimulants during combat operations.