The September 26 Revolution stands as a defining milestone in Yemen's modern history. It will forever remain deeply rooted in the conscience of all Yemenis as the path to freedom, justice, and equality, and as the gateway to education, healthcare, and development. On the occasion of the 63rd anniversary of this immortal revolution, there is a renewed need to reflect upon its national significance and draw inspiration from its lessons in confronting today's challenges.
Perhaps the most important lesson to be drawn from the September Revolution is that the success of the republican project was founded upon national unity and the solidarity of Yemenis behind the vision of a modern state. Today, the restoration of the capital, Sana'a, and the rebuilding of the Yemeni state appear achievable only through the unification of efforts at the political, economic, military, and diplomatic levels. The revolution is not merely a historical event confined to the past; it is a system of values, ethics, and principles that must remain alive in the national consciousness and be passed on from one generation to the next.
As the Yemeni crisis continues, the fundamental divide remains between the vision of a republican state and the ideology of hereditary, divinely ordained rule. Yemenis chose the path of republicanism, democracy, and the peaceful transfer of power through the ballot box, while the Houthi movement continues to adhere to the doctrine of divine entitlement and the monopoly of political authority. From this perspective, Sana'a belongs to all Yemenis without exception, including the Houthis, provided they commit themselves to democratic political participation. Projects based on hereditary privilege or divine selection, however, have no place in Yemen's future.
It is also essential to acknowledge that part of the complexity of the current situation stems from the shortcomings of certain political elites who failed to absorb the lessons of September. Their actions, directly or indirectly, weakened the republican project and created opportunities for the resurgence of remnants of the Imamate ideology. Historical evidence indicates that attempts to infiltrate the institutions of the republican state began in the early years following the revolution, leaving lasting consequences for the state's development over subsequent decades.
Another issue that must not be overlooked is the marginalization, exclusion, and lack of educational opportunities experienced by many tribal communities. These conditions were exploited to mislead some individuals and recruit them into the ranks of the Houthis. Reality has demonstrated, however, that the Houthis make no distinction between Bakil, Hashid, or any other tribal affiliation; rather, they regard anyone who opposes their project as an adversary and an enemy.
When recalling the night of September 26, one cannot overlook the extraordinary courage and sacrifice displayed by the Free Officers who ignited the first spark of the revolution. History is not written with ink alone, but with the blood of courageous men and the determination of heroes who believed in their cause and confronted death with unwavering resolve. In this context, the role of Major General Abdullah Juzailan and his fellow revolutionary pioneers remains an integral part of Yemen's national memory and deserves lasting recognition and gratitude.
At the same time, the ongoing airstrikes on the capital, Sana'a, by Israel, together with the consequences of Houthi policies that have drawn Yemen and the wider region into greater instability and tension, underscore the urgency of restoring the Yemeni state and its legitimate institutions—institutions capable of protecting the interests of the Yemeni people and safeguarding the country's sovereignty.
Finally, the struggle to restore the Yemeni state is not the responsibility of Yemenis alone. It is supported by partnerships and strong relations with brotherly and friendly nations that have stood alongside the Yemeni people, foremost among them the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the Arab Republic of Egypt. Hope remains firmly anchored in reviving the spirit and inclusive values of the September Revolution, as they represent the most promising path toward restoring the state, consolidating the republic, and building a future worthy of Yemen and its people.
