Preoccupation with the political crisis in the capital ignores the further weakening of the Yemeni state outside of Sana’a.

Violence continues outside of the capital. Republican Guard troops attacked a military base manned by defected General Ali Mohsen al Ahmar’s first armored brigade in Hajjah city. Tribesmen, reportedly supporters of the southern secessionist movement, took control over Malah city in Lahij governorate to prevent it from falling to Islamist militants.

There are conflicting reports on whether President Ali Abdullah Saleh will return to Yemen from Saudi Arabia. Yemeni officials report that Saleh will return shortly; however, Saudi officials say that he will not return. Ongoing negotiations in the capital are taking place.

The loss of government control over key cities throughout Yemen is an indicator that the state is undergoing fragmentation. The country also remains at risk of armed conflict. The current situation has increased al Qaeda’s operating space in Yemen.

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