Yemen’s Ancient Treasures Under Threat as Renewed Houthi Fighting Raises Fears of Heritage Destruction and Smuggling
Yemen’s Ancient Treasures Under Threat as Renewed Houthi Fighting Raises Fears of Heritage Destruction and Smuggling The war has left archaeological sites in ruins, destroyed museums and undermined the ability to safeguard invaluable treasures, and may hasten the loss of Yemen's cultural heritage, officials say. The renewed fighting in Yemen is placing a new question on the agenda: How much of the country's remarkable cultural heritage can be preserved from destruction, looting, and illegal trade and trafficking? Archaeological sites, historic buildings and museum collections are severely damaged as a result of over 10 years of conflict. Renewed fighting in the country between the Houthi movement has raised fresh fears that further casualties may be incurred as the institutions charged with safeguarding the country's heritage are still very much under-strength. The consequences of the recent military events on archaeological sites and museum collections have not been fully ...