Ibb – An alarming wave of attacks on archaeological sites in Yemen’s Ibb Governorate has raised serious concerns among heritage experts and locals. More than ten historic locations have recently been subjected to excavation and organized looting, with local sources accusing groups linked to Houthi leaders of direct involvement.

Among the most heavily targeted sites is “Al-‘Usaybiyyah” on Mount ‘Isam in Al-Sadda District, where an armed group conducted a nighttime dig, triggering clashes with residents who tried to intervene. 

Other significant sites affected include the historic “Al-Asadiyah Mosque” in Al-Mashannah, “Mount Al-Ra’isi” in Dhi Al-Sufal, “Yafouz Fortress” in Al-Udayn, “Al-‘Arafah Castle” in the ancient city of Dhafar, the site of “Marit” in Al-Sayani, and the tombs of “Mufaddal” and “Al-Haddad” in Al-Sabrah.

Eyewitness accounts suggest that armed gangs operate under the protection—either direct or indirect—of Houthi authorities. These groups reportedly smuggle ancient artifacts and manuscripts out of the country through sophisticated trafficking networks, with items appearing in international auctions and black markets.

Yemeni heritage experts have warned that these violations pose a grave threat to the country's cultural identity. They are calling for urgent intervention from UNESCO and other international organizations to safeguard what remains of Ibb’s historical legacy and to halt the global trade in looted Yemeni antiquities.