Yemeni rebels clash with government
SANAA, Yemen – Yemen’s U.S.-backed leadership came under serious threat Monday as government troops clashed with Shiite rebels near the presidential palace and a key military base in what one official called “a step toward a coup.”
The militants seized control of state media in fierce fighting that marked the biggest challenge yet to President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi by the rebels, known as Houthis, who swept down from their northern strongholds last year and captured the capital in September.
The violence threatened to undermine efforts by the U.S. and its allies to battle al-Qaida’s Yemeni affiliate.
UN blasts attacks by extremist group
UNITED NATIONS – The U.N. Security Council is condemning the recent escalation of attacks by the Nigerian extremist group Boko Haram in the strongest terms and expressing deep concern that its activities are undermining peace and stability in central and West Africa.
The presidential statement approved Monday was the council’s first formal reaction to Boko Haram’s activities, which have increased in ferocity.
It comes on the eve of Tuesday’s meeting in Niger’s capital, Niamey, to discuss regional military action to respond to the threat posed by the Islamic militant group.
The council demanded that Boko Haram immediately halt all hostilities and demobilize.
Associated Press
