Divisions in the Yemeni opposition will likely prolong any resolution to the political crisis in the capital. The loss of state control over major cities in Yemen is an indicator of state fragmentation.

The acting president and opposition figures met in Sana’a. An opposition spokesman said that the two sides agreed to discuss a transition of power from President Ali Abdullah Saleh. The Yemeni youth movement has demanded that the vice president, now the acting president, clarify whether he will be part of a new transitional council.

Fighting is still occurring outside of the capital. The Yemeni army advanced on the city of Taiz, which has been taken over by tribesmen, sparking fresh clashes in the city. Over 15,000 people fled the violence in Abyan governorate and are taking refuge in Aden. Zinjibar, the capital of Abyan, was taken over by militants at the end of May. Outside of Aden, a Yemeni colonel was killed when his car exploded.

The power vacuum created by Saleh’s departure and the continued fighting in Yemen increases the likelihood of state fragmentation. The country also remains at risk of armed conflict.

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