ICRC warns of destruction of the historic city of Zabid

YemenExtra

SH.A.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) warned on Tuesday that fighting in western Yemen threatens the historic city of Zabid on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

In a statement, the committee called for the protection of the city’s landmarks, which include the largest number of mosques in Yemen and respect for its landmarks.

“The destruction of cultural property in the city would mean a great loss to individuals, communities and humanity,” the committee said.

“There is no doubt that fighting poses a danger to civilians and the unique architectural character of Zabid and threatens the city’s cultural ties to one of the world’s major religions.”

Zabid, about 75 km southeast of the Red Sea port city of Hodeida, was the capital of Yemen between the 13th and 15th centuries and was once considered a center of Islamic sciences.

The city, which includes 86 mosques, including the fifth oldest mosque, is one of the most prominent landmarks in the beginning of Islam.