Prominent Yemeni Scholar Al-Zindani Passes Away, Mourned as Great Loss to Nation

Abdul Majeed al-Zindani, a prominent Yemeni scholar and influential political figure, has passed away, according to Major General Mohammed Tariq. Al-Zindani's death is being mourned across Yemen as a significant loss for the country.

Major General Tariq expressed his condolences and described al-Zindani as "a great loss to the nation." Al-Zindani played a significant role in Yemen's religious and political affairs for many decades.

Born in Yemen's Ibb Governorate, al-Zindani rose to prominence as an Islamic scholar and founded the al-Iman University in Sanaa in 1993. He served as a spiritual leader for Yemen's Islah party and was a member of the presidential council formed after the 2011 uprising that forced longtime President Ali Abdullah Saleh to hand over power.

Al-Zindani was a controversial figure, with the U.S. Treasury Department alleging that he had a long history of working with Al-Qaeda. In 2004, the U.S. labeled him a "specially designated global terrorist." Al-Zindani denied the allegations.

Why this matters: Al-Zindani's passing marks the end of an era in Yemeni politics and religious leadership. As a key power broker, his death could have implications for the delicate political balance in war-torn Yemen.

Thousands attended al-Zindani's funeral in Sanaa on Monday, a reflection of his significant following in Yemen. Political leaders and religious figures paid tribute to al-Zindani, remembering him as a scholar and leader who played a critical role in Yemen's recent history. The loss of such an influential figure comes at a crucial time for Yemen as the country remains mired in conflict and political instability.

Key Takeaways

• Prominent Yemeni scholar and political figure Abdul Majeed al-Zindani has passed away.
• Al-Zindani founded the al-Iman University and was a spiritual leader for Yemen's Islah party.
• Al-Zindani was a controversial figure, labeled a "global terrorist" by the U.S. in 2004.
• Al-Zindani's death marks the end of an era in Yemeni politics and religious leadership.
• Thousands attended al-Zindani's funeral, reflecting his significant following in Yemen.