Fares Mohammed Manaa is a name that resonates deeply within the complex political landscape of Yemen. Known for his roles as an arms dealer, businessman, rebel commander, and politician, Manaa's life is a tapestry of controversy, influence, and power. This article delves into the multifaceted life of Fares Manaa, exploring his early years, career highlights, personal life, major achievements, and financial insights.
Quick Info
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Fares Mohammed Manaa |
| Popular As | Fares Manaa |
| Occupations | Arms Dealer, Businessman, Politician, Rebel Commander |
| Age (as of 2024) | 59 years old |
| Date of Birth | February 8, 1965 |
| Birthplace | Saada, Yemen |
| Nationality | Yemeni |
| net worth (2025) | Estimated at $10 million |
| Parents | Not publicly known |
| Spouse | Not publicly known |
| Children | Not publicly known |
Early Life
Fares Manaa's early life set the stage for his future endeavors in Yemen's turbulent political and business arenas. Born on February 8, 1965, in Saada, Yemen, Manaa's upbringing in this historically significant region shaped his perspectives and ambitions.
Family Background and Education
Manaa's family background played a crucial role in his rise to prominence. His brother, Hassan Manaa, served as the governor of Saada Governorate, indicating a family deeply entrenched in local politics. While details about Fares Manaa's education remain scarce, his early involvement in business suggests a sharp acumen for trade and strategy.
Early Business Ventures
Manaa entered the business world with ventures in trade and commerce. Leveraging his family's connections, he quickly established himself as a significant player in the local economy. This foundation in business would later serve him well in his more controversial dealings.
Career Highlights
Fares Manaa's career is marked by a series of high-profile roles and events that have cemented his status as a key figure in Yemen. From arms dealing to political maneuvers, his career has been anything but conventional.
Arms Dealing and Controversies
One of the most controversial aspects of Manaa's career is his involvement in arms dealing. In October 2009, the United Nations Security Council placed him on a blacklist of Yemeni arms dealers, accusing him of trafficking weapons to various militant groups, including Al-Shabaab. This led to significant legal and financial repercussions, including the freezing of his assets by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
Political Alliances and Roles
Manaa's political alliances have been equally significant. He was a close ally of former Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh and played a critical role in the Shia insurgency in Yemen. His position as head of a local council mediating peace with the Houthis during the insurgency highlighted his influence and strategic importance.
Governorship of Saada
In March 2011, following the Battle of Sa'dah, Manaa was appointed as the governor of Saada by the Houthis. His tenure lasted until December 2014, during which he oversaw significant administrative and military activities in the region. This period was marked by intense conflict and political maneuvering, cementing Manaa's reputation as a formidable leader.
Personal Life
While Fares Manaa's professional life is well-documented, his personal life remains shrouded in mystery. This section delves into the limited information available about his personal relationships and lifestyle.
Family and Relationships
Details about Manaa's immediate family, including his spouse and children, are not publicly known. This secrecy likely serves as a protective measure, given his controversial career and the potential threats associated with his high-profile roles.
Lifestyle and Interests
Manaa's lifestyle reflects his complex persona. Known for his strategic thinking and business acumen, he likely leads a life that balances his professional duties with personal interests that remain undisclosed to the public. His ability to navigate the dangerous waters of Yemeni politics suggests a man of considerable resilience and resourcefulness.
Major Achievements
Despite the controversies, Fares Manaa has achieved significant milestones in his career. This section highlights some of his major achievements and contributions to Yemeni society.
Mediation and Peace Efforts
One of Manaa's notable achievements is his role in mediating peace during the Shia insurgency in Yemen. His efforts to broker peace between the Yemeni government and the Houthis showcased his diplomatic skills and deep understanding of the region's complex political landscape.
Leadership in Saada
As the governor of Saada, Manaa implemented various administrative and military strategies that strengthened the Houthis' control over the region. His leadership during this tumultuous period demonstrated his ability to manage and lead in crisis situations.
Financial Insights
Fares Manaa's financial success is as controversial as his career. This section provides detailed insights into his net worth, sources of income, and financial controversies.
Net Worth and Sources of Income
As of 2024, Fares Manaa's estimated net worth is around $10 million. His wealth primarily stems from his business ventures and arms dealing activities. Despite legal troubles and asset freezes, Manaa has managed to maintain a significant financial portfolio.
Financial Controversies
Manaa's involvement in arms trafficking has led to numerous financial controversies. The U.S. Department of the Treasury's decision to freeze his assets and the United Nations Security Council's blacklist have significantly impacted his financial standing. However, his ability to navigate these challenges demonstrates his financial acumen and resilience.
Conclusion and FAQ
In conclusion, Fares Manaa is a complex and multifaceted figure in Yemeni politics. His career, marked by significant achievements and controversies, reflects the turbulent nature of Yemen's political landscape. As a businessman, arms dealer, and politician, Manaa's influence is undeniable, and his story continues to be a subject of interest and debate.
FAQ
Q: Who is Fares Manaa?
A: Fares Manaa is a Yemeni arms dealer, businessman, rebel commander, and politician known for his involvement in arms trafficking and his role as the governor of Saada.
Q: What is Fares Manaa's net worth?
A: As of 2024, Fares Manaa's estimated net worth is around $10 million.
Q: What controversies is Fares Manaa involved in?
A: Fares Manaa has been implicated in arms trafficking to militant groups like Al-Shabaab, leading to asset freezes by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and being placed on a UN blacklist.
Q: What was Fares Manaa's role during the Shia insurgency in Yemen?
A: Manaa played a significant role in mediating peace between the Yemeni government and the Houthis and later served as the governor of Saada under the Houthis' administration.
Q: Is there any information about Fares Manaa's personal life?
A: Details about Fares Manaa's personal life, including his family and relationships, are not publicly known.
Fares Manaa's life and career offer a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of Yemeni politics and the intricate web of alliances and controversies that define it. His story is a testament to the enduring influence of key figures in shaping the course of a nation's history.
