Post by : Raman

Photo : Reuters

Yemen is facing a serious rise in violence as the conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed Houthi movement spreads. On Wednesday, Israel carried out airstrikes on Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, and the northern Al-Jawf province. According to the Houthi-run Health Ministry, these strikes caused 46 deaths and injured 165 people. Many of the victims were civilians, while others were connected to military targets, including a military headquarters and a fuel station in Sanaa.

This escalation is connected to the ongoing war in Gaza. The Houthis, who control much of northern Yemen, have shown strong support for Palestinians. In recent weeks, they fired missiles and drones at Israel in solidarity with Hamas. Israel responded with precise airstrikes targeting Houthi-controlled areas.

Damage to Yemen’s Cultural Heritage

The attacks have not only caused human suffering but have also damaged Yemen’s rich cultural history. Yemen’s National Museum in Sanaa, which holds thousands of historic artifacts, was struck during the airstrikes. Other historic sites in the city were also hit. Videos and photos from the site show damage to the museum’s outside walls, though the safety of the priceless items inside is not yet confirmed.

The Houthi Ministry of Culture has asked UNESCO and the global community to step in and help protect Yemen’s historic treasures. Experts warn that losing these artifacts would erase centuries of Yemen’s history and culture, something that cannot be replaced.

Background of the Conflict

The Israel-Houthi conflict in Yemen is connected to the war in Gaza. Israel is fighting Hamas, while the Houthis, supported by Iran, have launched attacks on Israel using drones and missiles. These attacks have included drone strikes on southern Israeli airports, bypassing Israel’s strong air defense systems.

Israel says its strikes are defensive, aimed at stopping future Houthi attacks. On August 30, a previous strike killed the prime minister of the Houthi-run government and several ministers. Israel described this as a targeted action against senior officials responsible for attacks on Israeli territory.

The Houthis argue that their attacks on Israel are acts of resistance to support Palestinians. They have also targeted ships in the Red Sea, raising global concern about trade routes and safety at sea.

Humanitarian and Regional Concerns

Yemen is already dealing with a humanitarian crisis. Millions face poverty, hunger, and lack of medical care. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and civilians are trapped in the fighting. Experts warn that the rising violence could further destabilize the Middle East, involving neighboring countries and threatening international shipping in the Red Sea.

Current Situation and Outlook

At present, Yemen remains tense and uncertain. Israel continues to watch and intercept Houthi missiles and drones. The Houthis say they will continue attacks against Israel. Both sides are stuck in a cycle of violence, with no clear solution in sight.

Without international intervention, the human suffering and damage to Yemen’s cultural heritage could grow. This conflict shows how the war in Gaza affects countries beyond its borders, putting innocent civilians and priceless history at risk.

The situation in Yemen is more than just a military fight. It reflects the complex politics of the Middle East and the struggles of people caught in the crossfire. Yemenis are suffering from direct attacks, ongoing poverty, and the destruction of their historic sites.

The global community must take urgent action to protect civilians and preserve Yemen’s cultural treasures. Organizations like UNESCO have been called to respond quickly before more damage occurs. The world cannot afford to ignore Yemen’s growing crisis.

Yemen conflict, Israel-Houthi clashes, Yemen airstrikes, civilian casualties, cultural heritage