Statement of U.S. Embassy on Continuation of Fighting in Sa’ada

August 22, 2009

The United States Embassy in Sana’a views with deep concern the continuation of armed conflict between the Government of Yemen and Houthi rebels in the Sa'ada governorate in northern Yemen.

We call on both parties to return to the cease fire that was established last year. In the meantime, both parties should avoid any action that would endanger the civilian population in the affected area. We also call on both parties to ensure the security of local and international relief workers in the region, and the safe passage of emergency relief supplies to camps housing internally displaced persons.