Yemen has long maintained a firm and unwavering policy in support of the Palestinian cause, rooted in historical, ideological, and religious solidarity with the Palestinian people. The Yemeni government—regardless of its internal political shifts—has consistently rejected normalization with Israel and stood against Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. This stance has persisted through both republican and revolutionary eras, and it remains deeply entrenched in Yemeni public opinion and national discourse.
Historical Background of Yemen’s Position
Yemen’s position on Palestine dates back to the mid-20th century, during the height of Arab nationalism and anti-colonial struggles. After the creation of the state of Israel in 1948 and the subsequent displacement of Palestinians (known as the Nakba), Yemen aligned itself with broader Arab League policies condemning the Israeli occupation and advocating for Palestinian self-determination.
Following the unification of North and South Yemen in 1990, the Republic of Yemen adopted a unified foreign policy that continued to express solidarity with the Palestinian people. Yemen strongly supported resolutions at the United Nations and within Arab and Islamic institutions calling for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Official Policy and Diplomatic Position
Yemen has never recognized the state of Israel and has no formal diplomatic relations with it. Its official position includes:
- Full support for Palestinian statehood based on 1967 borders.
- Opposition to normalization agreements between Israel and Arab countries unless a just solution to the Palestinian issue is reached.
- Condemnation of Israeli military actions in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.
- Support for the right of return for Palestinian refugees.
- Advocacy for international pressure on Israel to cease settlement expansion and violations of international law.
Yemen and the Arab-Israeli Normalisation Wave
In recent years, some Arab countries—such as the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan—have signed normalization agreements with Israel under the Abraham Accords, brokered by the United States. Yemen, however, strongly opposed these moves, with government officials, religious leaders, and political factions all voicing their disapproval.
Even amidst Yemen’s own internal conflict and humanitarian crisis, statements from both the internationally recognized government and the Houthi leadership have rejected normalization. They argue that it betrays the Palestinian struggle and undermines Arab unity.
The Houthi Position on Palestine
The Houthi movement (Ansar Allah), which controls large parts of northern Yemen including the capital Sana’a, is particularly vocal in its anti-Israel rhetoric. The group frames its opposition to Israel within a broader anti-American and anti-Western ideology. Slogans such as “Death to Israel” and “Curse upon the Jews” are part of the Houthi’s core political and religious identity, though the latter phrase has drawn international criticism for its inflammatory and antisemitic nature.
The Houthis have also claimed alignment with the so-called “Axis of Resistance,” which includes Iran, Hezbollah, and Syria groups united by their opposition to Israel and Western influence in the region.
Public Sentiment in Yemen
Among ordinary Yemenis, support for Palestine is widespread and passionate. Demonstrations in support of Gaza and against Israeli aggression are common, especially during escalations of conflict in Palestine. Despite poverty, war, and famine, Yemenis regularly donate to Palestinian causes and participate in rallies to express solidarity.
Palestine is often viewed not only as a political issue but also as a religious and moral duty, particularly regarding the sanctity of Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem—Islam’s third holiest site.
