The novel 'Aqroon 94' by Yemeni author Ammar Ba'tawil was written during the latest war in Yemen, drawing from the sounds of gunfire and human suffering that resonate deeply within him. Born and raised in Hadhramaut, Ba'tawil witnessed the 1994 summer war firsthand, which, alongside the ongoing conflict since 2015, compelled him to revisit historical tragedies with a renewed consciousness. Published in 2017, this work follows his 2015 novel 'Salmin', and serves as a significant commentary on social issues in the region.

'Aqroon 94' vividly depicts the struggles of marginalized communities in Hadhramaut and southern Yemen, highlighting a relative improvement in their conditions during the presidency of Salim Rabi Ali. The narrative presents various characters, such as ‘Aydh’ and ‘Castro’, who reflect on the social safety net and justice that the state offered at that time. However, the resurgence of the 1994 war accentuated fears of marginalization, as these communities sensed that the prevailing victors would not acknowledge their place in society, creating anxiety over a potential return to exclusion and social hierarchy.

This fear resonates with a segment of society that does not rely on tribal affiliations but seeks a recognition of their identity and rights within the changing socio-political landscape. Through 'Aqroon 94', Ba'tawil not only captures the historical context essential for understanding the current struggles but also challenges the reader to confront the ongoing issues of marginalization in Yemen, emphasizing the essential need for inclusivity and justice in the face of conflict.