None of the powers controlling different areas of the country are sympathetic to Christians. Yemenis from minority religions are severely marginalized. Relief aid is mostly distributed through local Muslim groups and mosques, which are alleged to be discriminating against anyone not considered a devout Muslim. 

If someone is reported to be a Christian they could face severe monitoring, arbitrary detention, torture, ill-treatment and even murder. In Houthi-controlled areas, it’s dangerous to possess a Bible or other Christian books. Leaving Islam to follow Christ is seen as a huge betrayal of your native tribe and can lead to being disowned, disinherited, divorced and losing custody of your children, being banished or even murdered.  

Persecution has increased recently as the Houthis have gained more power. Dozens of house churches can no longer meet. But Yemenis disillusioned with Islam are searching for truth and finding out about Christ through online chats with secret Christians.