Sana’a — A new investigation by The Guardian has revealed that arms dealers linked to Yemen’s Houthi movement are using social media platforms—including X (formerly Twitter) and WhatsApp—to traffic military-grade weapons, in direct violation of international sanctions and platform policies.

The report, conducted in collaboration with the Tech Transparency Project (TTP), identified over 130 X accounts and 67 WhatsApp business profiles operating from Houthi-controlled areas, primarily in Sana’a. These accounts openly advertised rifles, grenade launchers, and U.S.-branded military equipment, some marked “Property of U.S. Govt” and “NATO.”

Despite policies prohibiting weapons sales, both X and Meta have failed to remove many of the accounts, some of which are monetized through premium subscriptions and tipping features. TTP director Katie Paul warned that the platforms’ inaction poses a threat to U.S. national security and enables sanctioned groups to profit from illicit trade.

The findings have sparked renewed calls for stricter content moderation and accountability from tech companies, especially as the Houthis continue to target international shipping and expand their influence through digital channels.