A small bronze statue from Yemen, depicting a sphinx, is set to be auctioned in Tel Aviv as part of the private collection of Shlomo Moussaieff, a renowned Jewish antiquities collector and jeweler. 

Alongside this statue, six other Yemeni artifacts are expected to be put up for sale by the end of April. These pieces represent a significant portion of Yemen's rich cultural and historical heritage, which has been affected by years of conflict and instability.

The announcement of the auction has sparked outrage among Yemeni researchers, advocates, and cultural heritage organizations, who have voiced concerns about the preservation and rightful ownership of Yemen's historical artifacts. Many have called for efforts to prevent the sale, arguing that the removal of these treasures constitutes a loss of Yemen's identity and history.

The situation highlights the broader issue of the illicit trade and dispersal of cultural artifacts from conflict zones, often facilitated by instability and lack of governmental oversight. 

International organizations continue to stress the importance of protecting heritage in regions affected by conflict, urging for collaboration to combat the trafficking of artifacts and ensure their safe return to their countries of origin.