By Nasser Mohammed
Yemen marks this year the anniversary of the “Sarkha” (Slogan of Anasrullah) which is a cry against global arrogance, at a time of direct confrontation with regional and international enemies.
Over the past two decades, the slogan has evolved beyond a temporary chant into a broader project intertwined with Yemen’s military developments and political transformations.
The anniversary comes amid rapid regional changes that have brought renewed attention to the slogan’s meanings and symbolism, with supporters viewing it as an expression of resilience and a reflection of political and ideological orientations shaped during periods of conflict.
Origins of the slogan
The “Sarkha” slogan was introduced during a lecture titled “Al-Sarkha against the Arrogant” on January 17, 2002, delivered by Hussein Badr al-Din al-Houthi in the Marran area of Saada province. It came in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks in the United States, a period when the region was marked by submission and dependency.
At the time, the slogan was seen by followers as a break from silence and the beginning of a cultural project aimed at restoring identity and independent decision-making.
In this context, Yahya Qassem Abu Awadah, a member of Ansarullah’s cultural office and a researcher, said the emergence of the slogan was driven by several factors. Chief among them, the late leader’s sense of responsibility and awareness of “US-Israeli movements,” as well as prevailing conditions of hardship.
He also pointed to religious principles that emphasize preparedness, strength, support for truth, and disavowal of the enemies of God.
The Slogan is Expanded Project
In its early years, the slogan remained limited in scope; however, successive developments in the country contributed significantly expanded its presence.
Over time, it moved beyond being a symbolic expression to become part of public discourse across various segments of society, and a recurring feature in both official and popular events and activities.
Abu Awadah notes that the “Qur’anic project” associated with the slogan seeks to awaken the Ummah from a state of silence toward confronting challenges and threats stemming from an unprecedented “US-Israeli” campaign.
This can be achieved through a serious return to the Holy Quran and efforts to raise awareness, alongside practical measures including the boycott of American and Israeli goods as a means of economic pressure against hegemonic powers.
Phases of Conflict and Confrontation
The unjust attacks on the “Qur’anic project” during that period marked pivotal turning points in the slogan’s trajectory. According to observers, these developments contributed to deepening its reach rather than limiting it. With each stage, the slogan gained greater momentum, gradually evolving into a symbol associated with a culture of resilience and confrontation.
Amid the political transformations witnessed in Yemen, the slogan became more prominent in the public sphere, moving beyond a symbolic framework into political, media, and cultural dimensions. It has since, according to analysts, become a reference point in shaping public positions.
From Expression to Influence
Analysts note that the slogan has undergone a qualitative transformation into a concept with tangible impact. Writer Mohammed Fadel Al-Ezzi argued in an article that attempts to downplay the slogan have failed, citing international reactions reflecting its influence.
He added that the slogan has expanded beyond words into a wider phenomenon, extending from public gatherings to broader arenas of influence, particularly as Yemen’s stance on regional issues has intensified.
Beyond Yemen
Today, the “Sarkha” continues to feature prominently in official and public events, with observers noting that its influence has extended beyond Yemen’s borders. They link it to practical positions on the ground, reflecting a shift in Yemen’s regional role amid ongoing geopolitical changes.
The anniversary serves as an occasion to revisit the slogan’s trajectory, with a variety of events organized, including mass rallies, speeches, and cultural activities. Participants reaffirm their commitment to its meaning and continued presence, viewing it as a symbol of stance and steadfastness.
Status of the Slogan
The slogan holds a special place among different segments of society and resonates with audiences across the region as an expression of identity and political stance. They argue that its longevity reflects its ability to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining its core message of steadfastness and independence.
Over more than two decades, the “Sarkha” has evolved from a limited chant into a multi-dimensional project, with its meanings continuing to be reshaped in line with Yemen’s shifting political and regional landscape.
Translated by Emad
