IQNA – A Yemeni media activist said the Islamic resistance in Yemen transcends mere military capability as it is rooted in a profound faith in God, the discernment of the people, and the preservation of an authentic Quranic heritage and identity.
Sayid Ahmad Abdulmalik, a media activist and presenter of the program “Al-Wa’d al-Sadiq” (The True Promise) on the international Al-Kawthar network, has succeeded in presenting a distinct image of Yemen and its people to both Persian and Arabic-speaking audiences. He appears on live broadcasts—which analyze regional developments and the Axis of Resistance—attired in traditional Yemeni clothing, with the iconic janbiyah (dagger) worn at his waist. Abdulmalik is not merely a presenter; he serves as the voice of a people who, despite enduring years of blockade, aggression, and sanctions, remain steadfast in their faith-based identity, Islamic unity, and devotion to the Holy Prophet (PBUH).
In an interview with IQNA—facilitated by the public relations department of the Al-Kawthar network—Abdulmalik offered a comprehensive portrait of contemporary Yemen. It is a land with roots in the ancient civilization of Saba, which today—relying on its faith, identity, and a Quranic path—stands firm against the region’s most formidable challenges. From traditional attire and the janbiyah to the massive, million-strong gatherings chanting “Labbayk ya Rasul Allah” (Here I am, O Messenger of God), and from religious unity within mosques to the unwavering support for Palestine—all these elements speak of a nation who refuses to trade their dignity for anything.
The text of this interview follows:
IQNA – You have repeatedly emphasized that “Yemeni Might” (al-ba’s al-Yamani) is not merely a slogan, but a reality forged on the battlefield. For an audience that knows Yemen only through images of war and blockade: where does this Yemeni Might originate? And what spiritual and historical heritage lies behind the traditional attire and the janbiyah—a heritage that has kept you so steadfast in the face of such immense pressure?
Abdulmalik – When we speak of Yemeni Might, we are not referring to a fleeting slogan or behaviors detached from reality; rather, we are speaking of a truth deeply rooted in the history and civilization of Yemen—a truth refined by challenges, and fortified by faith and a profound sense of pride in one’s identity and dignity, enabling it to endure through every hardship.
Yemen is a land of civilization and history dating back thousands of years. Among the most prominent markers of its past grandeur is the Kingdom of Sheba (Saba), mentioned in the Holy Quran as an exemplar of civilization and power. Indeed, the hoopoe (hudhud) reported to Solomon (AS) regarding its people: “I found a woman ruling over them; she has been given everything, and she possesses a magnificent throne.” Furthermore, regarding the people of Sheba, it is stated: “Indeed, there was a sign for the people of Sheba in their dwelling place.” Consider the dozens of kingdoms that once existed in the land of Yemen—not to mention the people of Tubba, a subject addressed in numerous Quranic verses.
This history instills in us a sense of pride in our identity, culture, and belonging to “Yemen the Happy” (Yemen al-Sa‘id); yet, it simultaneously places upon us the responsibility to preserve our values and civilization. Thus, we declare: We, the people of Yemen, are possessors of strength and great martial might—as expressed by the people of Bilqis in the Holy Quran: “They said, ‘We are possessors of strength and great martial might.’”
This strength does not stem solely from courage; rather, it arises from faith in God, from awareness and insight, and from adherence to a Quranic path—a path that has fortified the Yemeni people’s sense of responsibility, steadfastness, and pride in their identity. A truly strong person is not merely one who possesses the instruments of power, but one who possesses the will to remain steadfast—someone who refuses to abandon their dignity under pressure, and who employs every available means to achieve resistance and victory, even when their material resources are limited.
As for traditional Yemeni attire and the janbiyah, these are integral to our identity and heritage—symbols of our pride in our history and authenticity. It has long been said that “a weapon is a man’s adornment”, a tradition that generations in Yemen have upheld and preserved. The value of this tradition is made complete through wisdom, chivalry, and respect for others; furthermore, it serves as a form of resistance against the Western culture imposed upon our nations.
IQNA – In today’s world, where indigenous cultures are increasingly fading into oblivion, how do Yemeni customs and traditions contribute to social cohesion and the cultural resilience of the people? Does the younger generation in Yemen still maintain a connection to these traditions? Regarding the customs and traditions of Yemen, it must be noted that these are not merely social manifestations; rather, they are an authentic component of an identity that sustains social cohesion and links generations to their history and roots.
Abdulmalik – When we speak of traditional Yemeni attire—including the janbiyah—or the practice of welcoming guests with incense, fragrances, and coffee, we are describing a culture founded upon generosity, chivalry, respect for elders, the maintenance of kinship ties, and social solidarity.
The Eid perhaps stands out as one of the most prominent expressions of this identity. It is not merely an occasion for celebration, but an opportunity to strengthen family bonds, reconcile differences, and renew familial relationships—all the more significant given the hardships Yemen has endured, such as war and blockade.
Similarly, social gatherings—common across many settings—serve as spaces for dialogue, the exchange of ideas, and the resolution of disputes. However, preserving heritage does not mean clinging indiscriminately to every custom; rather, it entails upholding positive values while fostering those aspects that deserve to be promoted.
Yemeni youth remain capable of carrying this identity into the future—through family, schools, media, and social networks—by presenting their heritage in contemporary ways that resonate with new generations.
We believe that a people who understand their roots and take pride in their history can engage with the wider world without losing their own identity. Identity is not a wall that separates us from others; instead, it acts as the roots that provide us with stability as we interact with the world.
IQNA – In your addresses, you have repeatedly emphasized the unity of the Islamic Ummah, framing it not merely as a religious recommendation but as a strategic necessity for the Ummah’s survival. Today, Yemen is recognized as a “nucleus of Islamic convergence”. Yet, in a world where religious and political differences often lead to conflict, how can this unity be realized in practice? Furthermore, what lessons does the Yemeni experience regarding the “unity of fronts” (within the Axis of Resistance) offer to other Islamic societies?
Abdulmalik – When we speak of Islamic unity in Yemen, we are referring to a social reality we have lived for many years—a setting where followers of various schools of thought would gather in mosques to pray, characterized by coexistence and mutual respect. Each school maintained its own study circles where adherents learned their respective tenets, yet this never hindered dialogue or interaction among the broader community. Islam was all-encompassing, and the commonalities far outweighed any differences.
However, foreign powers—foremost among them Britain and the United States—sought to exploit these differences and widen existing rifts through a “divide and rule” strategy. This was compounded by the emergence of political and intellectual agendas aimed at fracturing Yemeni society. Nevertheless, public awareness and the concerted efforts made within Yemen to counter sectarian discourse helped thwart attempts to transform religious differences into violent conflict among the members of a single nation.
This principle was clearly manifested in Yemen’s stance regarding the Palestinian cause; Participation in supporting Palestine has demonstrated that a comprehensive, overarching cause can transcend various sensitivities and divisions. It has shown that the people of Yemen—despite their differing religious sects and affiliations—can unite around a single stance when it comes to aiding the oppressed and defending just causes.
In this regard, the Yemeni experience offers an important lesson to the Ummah: differences should not devolve into hostility, and religious diversity is no barrier to coexistence or joint action.
Instead of squandering our energy on internal conflicts that only serve our enemies, we must direct our efforts toward greater causes—foremost among them, Palestine.
Islamic unity does not imply total agreement on every opinion; rather, it entails respecting our differences, upholding our shared values, and cooperating on matters upon which we agree. An Ummah that allows its internal differences to overshadow its just causes weakens itself from within. Conversely, an Ummah united by the cause of Palestine—and by a commitment to dignity and the rejection of oppression—is far better equipped to confront challenges and shape its own future.
IQNA — The history of Yemen bears witness that this land has long been a cradle of love and devotion for the Noble Prophet (PBUH) and his pure household. From the role played by the Aws and Khazraj—tribes of Yemeni origin—in assisting the Prophet (PBUH) in Medina, to the present day, where millions of Yemenis gather in public squares—chanting “Labbayk ya Rasulallah”—despite enduring bombardment and a blockade. Is this devotion merely a religious sentiment, or is it rooted in a profound historical and civilizational bond? And how might this love be transformed into a practical model for the unity and resistance of the Islamic Ummah?
Abdulmalik – When we speak of the love our people in Yemen hold for the Messenger of God (PBUH), we are referring to an affection deeply rooted in the conscience of our nation. The world bears witness to this love—seen in the millions who gather, the marches held, and the events organized across every public square in Yemen to commemorate the birth of the greatest of all human beings.
When we take to the streets for these occasions, we do so out of love, longing, and loyalty to the Noble Prophet (PBUH). We do so to reaffirm our commitment to his path and to remind the Ummah of the values he brought—mercy, justice, dignity, and morality. You can see the squares and streets turn green, as the anniversary of the Prophet’s (PBUH) birth becomes an experience woven into the fabric of our homes and society; the observances begin at the start of the month of Rabi’ al-Awwal, continuing through the day of his birth and beyond.
This love is not a superficial phenomenon or merely a celebration; rather, it is an extension of the historical bond between Yemen and Islam. From the very inception of the Islamic call, the people of Yemen played a pivotal role in supporting Islam and building the Islamic society. Islamic history documents the contributions of various Yemeni tribes—foremost among them the Aws and the Khazraj—in aiding the Messenger of God (PBUH) and defending his mission.
We believe that love for the Prophet (PBUH) is not measured merely by the abundance of slogans or images, but by the extent to which one adheres to his moral character, follows his example, embodies truthfulness and trustworthiness, practices mercy and justice, and stands firmly on the side of the oppressed. Such occasions should serve as a milestone for renewing our pledge to the Messenger of God (PBUH), transforming this love into concrete actions and stances within our daily lives.
Thus, the commemoration of this event by the people of Yemen carries a message that resonates far beyond our own borders. This message serves as a call for the Ummah to return to the values of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), strengthen its unity, confront oppression and arrogance, and support the oppressed—foremost among them, the people of Palestine.
IQNA – You have repeatedly stated that Yemen’s support for Palestine will continue until victory is achieved. You characterize the equation—“siege for siege, airport for airport, strike for strike”—not merely as a slogan, but as the logic of Yemeni deterrence. Yet, this support has come at a heavy cost for a people who have themselves endured years of siege and war. How do you justify this strategic choice to the Yemeni public? Furthermore, in your view, what lies ahead for the Axis of Resistance—with Yemen and Palestine at its core? Are we on the verge of a new regional order in which the “unity of fronts” (wahdat al-sahat) becomes an institutionalized reality?
Abdulmalik – Regarding Yemen’s support for the Palestinian cause—and whether this stance impacts the current reality and future of Yemen—the truth is that the Yemeni people, across all groups and segments of society, have made Palestine a central cause that guides their actions. This stems from their conviction that aiding the Palestinian people is a religious, moral, and humanitarian obligation.
We believe that a significant portion of the suffering endured by the Ummah today stems from the abandonment of its central causes—foremost among them, Palestine. If we wish to live with honor and dignity, and to enjoy security and stability, we must stand with the Palestinian people and embrace our responsibilities toward them. The persistence of occupation, hegemony, and aggression threatens the security and stability of the entire region; true peace cannot be achieved while oppression continues and nations remain deprived of their rights.
We observe how pressure is exerted upon anyone who refuses to submit to American and Zionist agendas—through blockades, sanctions, the sowing of discord, and attempts to fragment societies from within. Yet, the people of Yemen have repeatedly chosen to endure hardship, making the support of Palestine an integral part of their stance and their duty—a commitment rooted in the noble Quranic verse: “The believers are but brothers”. We do not wish for brotherhood to be merely a spoken word; rather, it must be a practical stance—translated into action, contribution, and the assumption of responsibility, each according to their own capacity and means.
Ultimately, we shall be questioned before God: What did we offer to the oppressed? And what did we do when we witnessed a people suffering and stripped of their rights? Thus, we view the support of Palestine not merely as support for the Palestinians, but as support for Yemen, for the Ummah, for humanity, and for the cause of truth—wherever it may be found. We do not compartmentalize the causes of the Ummah, nor can we remain indifferent to the suffering of our oppressed and downtrodden brothers in Palestine or anywhere else. At the same time, we do not forget the suffering of the people of Yemen; day and night, we strive to alleviate it, confront oppression, and secure safety, stability, and dignity for our nation. Supporting Palestine does not mean overlooking the wounds of Yemen; rather, we believe that the dignity of Yemen, Palestine, and the other nations of the Ummah are interconnected issues, and that standing with the oppressed is an indivisible duty.
Despite all the pressures and challenges the region is enduring, it is clear that the era following the Al-Aqsa Flood (operation) is fundamentally different from what came before. This phase has unveiled many truths, brought the Palestinian cause back to the forefront of global attention, and opened the door to shifts in public consciousness and political stances. We hope that the unity of the Ummah will be strengthened, and that the efforts of its nations and vibrant forces—foremost among them the people of Palestine, Yemen, and Iran, along with other resistance movements—will converge to serve the causes and rights of the Ummah.
We believe that relief follows hardship, and that nations which hold fast to their rights—never abandoning their oppressed—are capable of shaping their own future. Our mission is clear: aiding Palestine is not a burden upon Yemen; rather, it is a stance consistent with the faith and dignity of its people. Standing with Palestine is, in essence, standing with truth, justice, and humanity. The world after the Al-Aqsa Flood will not be the same as it was before; we hope that the coming period will be one of heightened awareness, broader solidarity, and genuine synergy among the nations of the Ummah as they confront oppression and strive to realize honor and dignity.
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