Gulf of Aden Security Review

Yemen: Al-Houthi rebels claim control over northern-most district of the Sa'ada governorate; Egypt authorized by Arab League to assist Yemen; Yemen's Parliament calls for end to insurgency

Horn of Africa: Hizb al-Islam fighters set up new base in Elgal village, previously occupied by government troops; agreement reached by al-Shabaab and Hizb al-Islam over Kismayo; Medina hospital in Mogadishu receives threats from Islamists; Russia agrees to help France train Somali soldiers in Djibouti

Yemen Security Brief

• Al-Houthi rebels claim to have gained full control of the Munabbih district bordering Saudi Arabia in northern Sa'ada. The UNHCR has also delayed an aid-convoy that would have traveled through the region to deliver assistance to internally displaced persons.[1]

• A number of Arab countries have authorized Egypt to try to help Yemen solve its security situation. Egyptian Foreign Minister, Ahmed Abu al-Gheit, the Director General of Egyptian Intelligence, Omar Suleiman, and the Secretary General of the Arab League, Amr Moussa, met with President Ali Abdullah Saleh and Yemeni officials to discuss future steps.[2]

• Yemen's Parliament called for an immediate end to the northern rebellion, government responsibility for providing for the internally displaced persons, and halting the issuance of weapons importing licenses. This follows a report to Parliament by the Deputy Prime Minister for Defense and Security and the Minister of Local Administration that the al-Houthi rebels have rejected the government's ceasefire conditions.[3]

Horn of Africa Security Brief

• Government troops vacated their position in Elgal village, 15 km north of Beledweyne, and Hizb al-Islam fighters have moved in to set up base there. Recently, TFG officials have threatened to invade Beledweyne from the north.[4]

• Al-Shabaab and Hizb al-Islam have announced an agreement over the port-city of Kismayo following a week of violent clashes. Senior officials from both organizations confirmed the agreement.[5]

• Letters warning Medina Hospital staff in Mogadishu not to care for civilians were found scattered around the hospital. The letters had bombs and pistols on them and called on the International Committee of the Red Cross to cease its distribution of medical aid. They mentioned that "apostates" were cured in the hospital, referring to government soldiers. It is unknown which Islamist group is responsible for the letters.[6]

• Russia has agreed to train Somali soldiers in Djibouti following Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner's request last week in Russia.[7]

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