Elements of the Houthi group burned part of the wall of the historic Radaa Castle, which is one of the most important archaeological monuments in Al Bayda Governorate.

Used car tires were used as a means of starting fires, which led to severe damage to the wall and distortion of the archaeological monument dating back to the third century AD.

The castle has been neglected and destroyed over the years, including its conversion into a military barracks and prison camp, and repeated calls for its maintenance and protection were ignored.

This incident sparked widespread anger in society, as activists posted pictures of the castle burning on social media, which led to community calls to hold the perpetrators accountable.

Calls have been renewed to preserve this ancient Yemeni cultural heritage, amid demands to hold those responsible for the incident accountable and to put pressure on the group to stop acts of tampering and destruction. Activists and journalists have called on international organizations concerned with cultural heritage, including UNESCO and the International Council on Monuments and Sites, to denounce the violation and put pressure on the group to stop tampering with cultural heritage in Yemen.

The importance of Radaa Castle is due to the fact that it was built during the reign of King Shammar Yaharash Al-Himyari, and it was considered a military fortress to protect the city. In light of the continuing collapses and the neglect of those concerned, the castle faces the risk of complete destruction, which requires urgent action to save this unique historical landmark.