News - Yemen: The General Authority for Antiquities and Museums has expressed concern over reports of systematic neglect of archaeological sites in Marib and other occupied areas.

In a statement on Sunday, the authority condemned this disregard for Yemen’s cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of these sites as a testament to Yemeni civilization, many of which are recognized as World Heritage sites. It criticized the lack of commitment to preserving the nation’s identity and cultural legacy and called on citizens in the affected areas to help prevent further damage.

Since the start of the US-Saudi-Emirati aggression on Yemen in 2015, rare Yemeni historical artifacts have been subjected to theft, looting, and smuggling abroad. 

Reports tracking stolen and smuggled Yemeni artifacts revealed that approximately 4,265 Yemeni archaeological pieces were sold in 16 international auctions in the United States and Europe, hosted by renowned international auction houses specializing in antiquities in six Western countries between 1991 and 2022.

In recent years, Yemeni artifacts sold in international auctions reached 2,610 pieces, including 2,167 in the United States, with a total value exceeding 12 million dollars. Currently, 1,384 smuggled and stolen Yemeni artifacts are displayed in seven international museums.