Regional Conference on Sea Security Begins in Sana'a -

A regional conference on sea security started Tuesday in Sana'a with piracy, a recently soaring phenomenon off the coast of Somalia, dominating the discussions of the first day of the two-day meeting.

  Dhamar University Obtains IUS Membership -

The Dhamar University has obtained membership in the France-based International Union of Academies (IUA) to be the first Yemeni university joining the union.

  Haradh Police Thwart Child Trafficking Attempts -

In two separate operations, the security forces in the district of Haradh of Hajjah province foiled two attempts to smuggle 13 children into Saudi Arabia.

  Kuwait to Finance Two Projects On Socotra worth $ 52 Million -

The Ministry of Transport is to start during this year the construction of the first of its kind trade port on the Socotra Island.

  Yemen and Somalia in Cooperation Talks -

Minister of Fisheries Muhammad Saleh Shamlan discussed on Monday with the Somali National Security Minister at the Bont Land Region the possibility of activating a memorandum of understanding on fishing cooperation between the two countries.

  Yemen Signs € 7.6 Million Deal with GTZ -

The Ministry of Education and the German Technical Cooperation Foundation GTZ signed a deal Monday for financing a number of educational projects in Yemen.

  Concerns over Growing Attacks on US Interests; Additional Forces deployed on Borders -

In a report released recently, the US State Department expressed concern over the growing and constant terrorist actions and violence targeting American people and interests throughout the world, including Yemen.

  Five-Year-Old Girl Raped in Amran Governorate -

A five year old girl was allegedly raped by her neighbor in a tragic incident that shook the country. According to security sources, the accused has been arrested.

  $103 Million Agreement to Improve Secondary Education -

Yemen and donors signed on Saturday a $103 million agreement on financing the project of improving secondary education and increasing the girls' enrolment and retention.

  Moussa Arrives in Yemen for Talks over Arab Division -

President Ali Abdullah Saleh received Saturday Secretary General of the Arab League Amr Moussa who briefed him on steps taken towards the implementation of the decisions from the Kuwait Economic Summit.

  Interior Ministry Arrests over 6,000 Criminals; 4,000 Remain at Large -

Minister of Interior Mutahar Rashad Al-Misri noted that his ministry is hunting after 4,000 wanted people; however, he denied their links to Al-Qaeda and assured that they are connected over criminal issues, not terrorist issues.

  Government Investigates with 70 Rebel Soldiers -

Security source confirmed that investigations are still underway with some (70 military soldiers) belonging to the 127 Infantry Brigade of the First Armored Division on the background of  a army rebellion last week against the Brigade Commander Brigadier General Jihad Ali Antar, in the camp known as Airport Camp in Gaflat Ethr District of Amran province.

  Rebels Accuse Government of Delaying Release of Detainees -

Almost two weeks after the two parties signed an agreement for releasing each side's detainees and despite local sources affirming that 12 Houthi rebels have been freed by authorities, a spokesman for the rebel leader has accused the government of delaying the release of all Houthi detainees.

  Suspected Al-Qaeda Detainees Released In Aden

Eleven detainees at the Al-Mansoura prison in the province of Aden and of whose who were arrested on suspicion of having links with Al-Qaeda have been released.

  Journalists Postpone Protests

Official journalist delayed Wednesday a scheduled protest to demand the implementation of the job description project.

  Yemen and UNHCR Seek Ways To Ease Burdens of Refugees Flow

Minister of Human Rights met on Wednesday with the representative of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees in Yemen Caire Burjwa.  

  Gunmen Close Court In Lahj

Gunmen closed on Tuesday a primary court in the province of Lahj and chased the chief of the court aiming to hunt him. 

  MPs Oppose Law Allowing Foreigners To Own Domestic Real Estates

In the Tuesday's parliamentary debate over referring a law allowing foreign investors to own real estates in Yemen to a concerned committee, a number of MPs rejected the idea saying the law is considered a threat to the country's sovereignty.

  Doctors and Professors Urge Al-Masri To Step Down

Hundreds of doctors and university professors held a sit-in Tuesday in front of Parliament demanding the Minister of Interior Mutahar Rashad Al-Masri to step down.

  Company Prevents Journalists From Photographing Blaze

The Yemeni Journalists Syndicate condemned Tuesday the attack against journalists who tried to photograph a major blaze that broke out at a potato chip and plastic factories in Sana'a.

  GCC Plan To Fight Malaria In Gulf and Yemen

The Gulf Cooperation Council Health Council has drawn up a unified plan to combat malaria and diabetes in the Gulf States and Yemen, member of the executive board of the council Ahmed Ali Al-Nomani said.

  SNACC Calls Meeting On Amendments To Law

The Supreme National Anti-Corruption Commission has called a consultative meeting, to be attended by all authorities concerned with fighting corruption, to discuss possible amendments to the law No. 39, 2006 on combating corruption.

  ICRC Seeks Saba Cooperation

Seeking cooperation to serve human issues in the country through raising awareness about these issues, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) held on Monday talks with the Yemen News Agency, Saba.

  Arab Businesswomen to Discuss Crisis in Saudi Arabia

Arab female investors are to hold a meeting next Monday in Saudi Arabia. The meeting, which would take place in Jeddah city, will discuss the global economic crisis and its repercussions on the Arab and Muslim countries, Chairwoman of the Supreme Tourist Committee at the Arab Women Investors Union Fouzia Nashir said.

  Journalists Threaten Full-Scale Strike On Wednesday

Official journalist authorities in Yemen held on Saturday meetings at their headquarters to discuss the recent government plans over implementation of the project of job description.

  Ethiopia Releases Two Yemeni Livestock Traders

The Ethiopian authorities have released two Yemeni livestock traders they arrested in Addis Ababa in November.

  Families Left Homeless In Hudaida As Authorities Destroy Their Homes

Dozens of families in the western province of Hudaida have been left homeless after backhoes that were guarded by many troops destroyed their homes in a north area in the province.

  MPs Urge Government Not To Receive Palestinian President

As Parliament resumed its session on Saturday, 60 MPs urged the government not to receive Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas saying he betrayed his country.

  Hundreds of Troops Deployed To Border with Kingdom

Hundreds of Yemeni troops have been deployed along the border with Saudi Arabia in precautionary measures to prevent the infiltration of Al-Qaeda affiliates from this neighboring country with the aim to attack western targets inside Yemen.

  World Financial Crisis Halts Refinery Project

The current global financial crisis prompted several businessmen and investment companies in Yemen to suspend or halt their investment projects.

  Mareb Security Arrest Suspects; Oil Pipeline Blown up

Mareb security forces have arrested three people in a security operation, which comes within the fieldwork of hunting after wanted elements involved in terrorist acts.

  IFJ Denounces Upholding Ruling against Al-Khaiwani; Several Newspapers Suffer Hard Financial Situation

In its recent release, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) denounced the Yemeni Appeal Court's ruling which confirmed the conviction of award-winning journalist Abdul Karim Al-Khaiwani for disseminating anti-government propaganda.

  Yemen and Japan in WTO-Accession Talks

During his meeting with Japan’s Ambassador to Yemen, Minister of Industry and Trade Yahya Al-Mutawakil discussed the possibility of signing an agreement with Japan on Yemen’s accession into the World Trade Organization.

  Despite Some Still Refuse Jews Start Relocation To Sana’a

Despite a number of Jewish families in Amran province refuse to move to new houses in Sana’a claiming there are not special worship places and schools for children, four Jewish families have already arrived in Sana’a launching the relocation of Jews to the city.

  Italy Affirms Commitment To Support Yemen

Italy inaugurated the new compound of  its embassy in Sana’a on Wednesday, in a move aimed to demonstrate Italy’s commitment to continue its support for Yemen particularly in the cultural and security areas.

  Saleh To Fly to Russia Next Month

Foreign Minister Abu Bakr Al-Qirbi met on Wednesday with the Russian ambassador in Sana’a Vladimir Trofimov.

  Public committees to spread awareness about corruption

The Studies and Economic Media Centre has declared that it would form in collaboration with the National Democratic Institute and the Supreme National Anti-Corruption Commission public committees throughout all Yemeni governorates in order to spread awareness about corruption issues.

  Warning Shots At High Speed Car Near US Embassy IN Sana’a

A security source has denied reports that a fire exchange took place between police at a checkpoint in the Sheraton area in the capital Sana’a and gunmen, saying police only fired bullets in the air to stop a high speed car.

  Yemen And Italy In Talks Over Piracy

President Ali Abdullah Saleh met on Tuesday in Sana’a the Italian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Stefania Craxi and the accompanying delegation currently visiting Yemen.

  JICA Organizes Workshop On Nutrition In Yemen

The Japanese International Cooperation Agency organized on Tuesday in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health and Population a workshop on the national strategy for nutrition.

  As New Leadership Announced, Al-Qaeda Threatens to Attack US Embassy in Yemen

The World Food Program will allocate $ 24 million in aid for Yemen to ease the impacts of the hike in the prices of foodstuffs, UN Assistant Secretary General, Deputy Executive Director of the World Food Program John Bowel said.

  WFP To Provide $ 24 Million In Aid To Ease Hikes In Food Prices

The World Food Program will allocate $ 24 million in aid for Yemen to ease the impacts of the hike in the prices of foodstuffs, UN Assistant Secretary General, Deputy Executive Director of the World Food Program John Bowel said.

  Yemen to Take Part In 8th OIC Information Ministers Meeting

Information Minister Hassan Al-Lawzi headed Monday to the Moroccan capital Rabat to take part in the 8th meeting of Information Ministers of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC).

  Yemen And Britain Sign Deal

Yemen and Britain signed on Sunday a deal on backing the Yemeni government efforts to improve the investment and business climate.

  Eritrea Seizes Four Yemeni Fishing Boats

Despite accords signed by the two countries, Eritrean Authorities have detained four Yemeni fishing boats with 24 fishermen on board.

  Yemen’s Initiative Receives Positive Signs from Hamas and Fatah

President Ali Abdullah Saleh announced on Saturday that the initiative that Yemen proposed for the Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah received positive initial acceptance from both sides, hoping that the current initiative, if agreed upon, could bring to an end the strong differences between them.

  EU Mission: We will not Observe Elections if Opposition not Involved

The European Union has recently sent an explorative mission to assess the current situation in Yemen and explore the usefulness for sending an observatory mission for the April 27 parliamentary elections.

  Al-Qaeda Appoints New Leader; Second in Command Ex-Prisoner

New leaders for Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula have been appointed; Al-Qaeda affiliates in Yemen have posted an audio message on the Islamic internet forum, Sada Al-Malahim, Al-Qaeda’s mouthpiece electronic journal.

  Journalists Syndicate Holds General Conference Next March; Denounces Attacks on Journalist

The Yemeni Journalists Syndicate (YJS) board held a meeting last Saturday and scheduled the syndicate's general conference for March 14. It further pointed out that candidacy for the post of the chairman and the board members will start as of January 27.

  In A Good Will Move, Rebels Release 30 Soldiers

The leader of the Houthi rebels in the northern province of Saada released on Saturday thirty soldiers of those who were arrested during clashes with troops.

  Open Day Session for Solidarity with Gaza People

“Citizens and officials in Yemen always experience the deep history of the nation’s problems,” said Lebanese International University (LIU) Academic Director, Sana’a Branch Ali-Al-Ashwal in an open day session held last Thursday in the university yard in Sana’a in solidarity with Gaza people.

  Yemen Elections Crisis, Parties Going to Polls or to Streets?

Yemen has been in a political crisis since August last year. The opposition and ruling party are in a dispute over the parliamentary elections which are scheduled to be held on April 27th, 2009.  A boycott by the opposition has been threatening the country's 19-year old democracy.

  Appeal to Obama for Release of Al-Moayad and Zayed

Head of the committee entrusted with defending Sheikh Muhammad al-Moayad and his assistant Muhammad Zayed sheikh Hamoud Hashim al-Tharhi has made an appeal to the US President Barack. H. Obama for the release of the two Yemeni detainees in the US since 2003.

  Russian Warship in Aden on Visit over Accident Killing

A Russian warship, believed to be that hit last week a Yemeni fishing boat killing a fisherman and injuring two others, docked on Tuesday at the port of Aden.

  French Company to Prepare Designs and Studies on Hadramout Harbor

The General Transpiration Authority is to sign next week with consultative French company specialized in port projects a contract to prepare designs for and studies on the Hadramout port, transport minister Khalid Ibrahim al-Wazeer said.

  New suspected al-Qaeda network dismantled in Yemen

Security forces raided on Monday a suspected al-Qaeda network in Sana’a killing two of the four-member terrorist group.

  Yemeni Lawyers to Sue Israeli Leaders

The Yemeni Lawyer Syndicate is to file lawsuits against Israeli leaders after the Israeli military launched a war on the Gaza strip killing more than 1300 Palestinians and injuring thousands, head of the syndicate Abdullah Muhammad Rajeh has said.

  As second 2009 foreign kidnapping confirmed; German Engineer to Be Released Soon

A German national who was abducted two days ago by tribesmen in Shabwa is to be released soon after a mediation led by the leader of the northwestern military block Ali Muhsen Al-Ahmer has succeeded to convince the abductors to free the engineer.

  Sana’a-Based Regional Anti-Corruption Network To Be Announced Soon

A Sana’a-based Regional Anti-Corruption Network is to be announced on the fringes of a symposium on corruption that started here on Monday.

  Germen Engineer kidnapped in Shabwa

Armed tribesmen kidnapped a German oil expert along with two Yemeni engineers working for a gas exportation project, 30 kilometers from their project's site at the Arabian Sea port of Balhaf, in the south-eastern province of Shabwa, official from the Yemen LNG company told media.

  $ 50 Million In Kuwait Loan For SDF

Yemen and Kuwait Monday signed in principal an agreement under which the latter will provide $ 50 million in loan for the Social Development Fund SDF.

  Many feared dead after ferry capsizes in Red Sea

Many are feared dead after a ferry carrying  300 Somalis and Ethiopians capsized in the Bab El-Mandab strait which connects the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean via the Gulf of Aden,  the Interior Ministry has said.

  President to attend Kuwait economic summit

President Ali Abdullah Saleh headed to Kuwait Sunday for the Arab economic summit which would be held on Monday and that he described as “the summit of solidarity with the Palestinian people in the Gaza strip.”

  Yemeni shot dead on border with kingdom

A Yemeni citizen has been killed at the hands of Saudi border security while he was trying to smuggle Qat into Saudi territories.

  No Success in Doha Summit; President Saleh Fails to Attend

With death toll rising to 1,200 Palestinian people killed and another 5,400 injured,  and a ceasefire announced by Israel, Arab leaders have failed to act responsibly with events and failed to hold an exceptional summit for discussing the situation in Gaza.

  Russia To Set Up Navy Military Base On Socotra

Russia is to set up a military base on Socotra Island but the timing for the establishment of the base has not been identified yet, Russian military officials have said.

  As Sana'a-Aden Road Still Blocked, Clashes Erupt Between Troops And Gunmen In Radfan

Many have been injured as clashes erupted between gunmen and troops in the Radfan district of Lahj province.

  Surge in Wheat Flour Prices

Wheat flour has seen a surge in its prices over the last two weeks and a sack of wheat is sold against YR 6,500 (some $32.5) after its prices dropped during the last two months to YR 3.800.

  Flow of Somali Emigrants Continue; 300 Drown in Bab Al-Mandab

The Ministry of Interior's Media Center reported that three hundred illegal African, mostly Somalis, emigrants drowned off Yemen's Bab Al-Mandab coasts last Saturday.

  Cases of Rabies on Rise; AIDS Strategy Launched

In its statistics, Al-Thawra Public Hospital in Dhamar province reported that eight people have died of rabies. Six cases are aged between 5-14 years while two cases belong to the age group 45-90 years.

  Yemeni Fisherman Killed In Sudan

Sources at the coastguard in the Red Sea said that a Yemeni fisherman was killed as two shells hit his boat which entered Sudan's territorial waters.

  Sana’a-Aden Road Blocked in Lahj

Prompted by arrests at a reconciliation and tolerance rally in Aden province, people from the province of Lahj are blocking the main road Sana’a-Aden for a second day.

  Russian warplane shoots Yemeni boat

A Russian helicopter has fired on a Yemeni fishing boat, injuring one of its four crew members as the boat was out of the Yemeni territorial waters in the Arabian Sea, Yemeni media said.

  $ 8 Million Sought In Ransom To Release Sea Princess

Somali pirates are demanding $ 8 million in ransom to release a Yemeni cargo ship carrying about 2000 tons of diesel, they had hijacked early this month in the Arabian Sea en route to the Socotra Island.

  20 people wounded as police disperse rally in Aden

At least 20 people have been injured as police fired bullets and tear gas into crowds during a rally at the Hashmi Square in Aden to commemorate the 13^th January Anniversary.

  Telephone calls to Palestine free

Within the Yemen ongoing support for the people of Gaza, the Yemeni government has announced telephone calls to the strip and other Palestinian territories would be free. 

  Jews' transfer to Sana'a to take place next Sunday

Impatiently waiting for a transfer to Sana'a after they started to experience harassments in their first place, Yemeni Jews in Amran province are to relocate to the capital Sana'a next Sunday, head of the rights and freedoms committee in Parliament said.

  Britain's Concern Over Interruption Of Dialogue On Yemen Upcoming Elections

British ambassador to Sana'a expressed on Sunday disappointment over the interruption of dialogue among political parities in Yemen, saying main political players in the country must reach reconciliation for the upcoming elections to be held on time.   

  Yemen Sign Deals With S. Korea, France

Yemen and South Korea singed on Sunday an agreement for soft loan to be provided by the S. Korean government for the construction and equipment of the Yemeni-S. Korean Technical Institute.

  Trial of Jew's Killer Postponed, HOOD Urges Trial Must Be Held In Sana'a

Yemen and South Korea singed on Sunday an agreement for soft loan to be provided by the S. Korean government for the construction and equipment of the Yemeni-S. Korean Technical Institute.

  Yemen's Credit Rating Rises Despite Global Financial Slump

Despite the global financial turmoil, Yemen's credit rating rose from " -B" in November 2006 to "B" in December 2008. Yemen's foreign currency rating also rose from C to B during the same period.

  Yemeni Physicians To Go To Gaza

The Yemeni Physician and Pharmacist Syndicates in collaboration with the Kana'an for Palestine Organization are to send a medical team to Gaza to treat injured Palestinian people in the strip.

  Al-Jazeerah College And UniMAP Sign Deal

The Sana'a-based Al-Jazeerah College has signed an agreement with the Malaysian Perlis University (UniMAP) for cooperation in various academic areas.  

  Yemeni Detainees in Guantanamo Bay Go on Hunger Strike

More than 100 Yemeni Detainees in Guantanamo Bay in Cuba are continuing their hunger strike in protest against their maltreatment and detention without legal justification, The National Organization for Defending Rights and Freedoms (HOOD) said.

  Protests Continue;  Yemenis Call for Opening Jihad Door

Nationwide, Yemen's provinces saw demonstrations for the second straight week as demonstrators expressed their solidarity with the Palestinian people and condemned the Israeli aggressions against the Palestinian people in Gaza.

  As Court Tries Three Yemenis over Spying for Israel;  Shin Bet Accuses Yemen of Providing Hamas with Chinese Rockets

The State Specialized Penal Court initiated its series of sessions to try three Yemenis accused of spying for Israel. The three people were referred to court after the respective prosecution had investigated them.

  Sana'a Streets Blockaded; Security Impose Tougher Measures

Yemeni security authorities are still blockading the road leading and around the American Embassy in Sana'a. The blockade has been forced two weeks ago and was timed with the Israeli assault against the people of Gaza.

  Hamdan is free

Having served out the rest of his military commission sentence in his homeland, Osama Bin Laden's former driver Salim Ahmed Hamdan has been released.

  Yemeni Fishing Boat Hit by French Helicopter

A French helicopter opened fire on a Yemeni yacht near Yemeni territorial waters last Friday, injuring the fisherman, Yemeni media said.

  Over 50,000 Somalis arrive in Yemen in 2008

More than 50,091 Somali refugees came to Yemen last year fleeing deteriorating humanitarian situation and civil conflict in Somalia, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees UNHCR said.

  Organization Renews Calls for Investigation into Immigrant Burning Incident

The Al Tagheer Organization for Defending Human Rights and Freedoms has renewed calls for an investigation into the incident in which 18 Yemeni migrants were burnt by Saudi Police on Yemen's border with the kingdom.

  Transfer of Amran Jews postponed

Yemeni Jews in Amran have expressed disappointment as their relocation to the capital Sana'a has been delayed.

  Kingdom mulls new measures to monitor borders

Despite the decline in illegal immigration to Saudi Arabia through its border with Yemen, the kingdom is considering new measures to tighten control over the border.

  Trial of Israel-Linked Spy Ring To Start Saturday

The Specialized Penal Court is to start next Saturday the trial of three of a six-member spy ring accused of working for the Israel's Massad Intelligence Agency, judicial sources have said.

  International tender for Aden airport to be announced soon

The General Authority for Civil Aviation and Metrology is to announce an international tender for partnership with an experienced world company in management of airports to market services provided at the Aden airport and to improve the performance of the airport.

  Yemeni employees to donate wages to Gaza

Employees of the public and mixed sectors as well as private funds are to donate a day's wages to the people of Gaza.  

  Yemen has signed more than 60 international human rights accords

Yemen has signed more than 60 international accords on human rights, most of which require social awareness to implement, Deputy Minister of Social and Labor Affairs has said. 

  Preparations For Receiving Injured Gazans Start

Arrangements got underway for receiving war-injured Gazans after President Ali Abdullah Saleh ordered the treatment of 500 Gaza people of those who were wounded by Israeli air, sea and ground assaults in the country's hospitals.

  As relocation nears, Jews in Amran attacked

A number of the Jewish community in Amran's Raidah district was injured Saturday morning as they were attacked by protesters in support for Gaza.

  Private hospitals threaten all-out strike if stabbers of al-Qadasi not arrested

Private hospitals in Sana'a have started a partial strike in protest against the slowness of authorities to arrest the attackers of a doctor in the Hospital of the Science and Technology University.  

  South African hostages freed in Abyan

A South African mother along with her two kids, who were abducted on Friday in Abyan province, have been freed. 

  Gulf center to train Yemeni laborers to be set up in Sana'a

The Saudi International Foras Investment Company intends to set up a training center in Sana'a for Yemeni laborers in an effort to qualify them to work in the Gulf States.

  Demanding Governmental Posts, Perpetrator Blow up Oil Pipelines

Safer Company resumed the pumping of oil after its technical team managed to repair the damaged oil pipeline which was blown up by unidentified people in Khawlan district's Jihanah area.

  Nearly 500 Dead in Gaza, Yemenis Continue Protest Nationwide

With war on Gaza entering its ninth day, the death toll rose to nearly 500 citizens. Over 2,400 others were injured, many of them women and children; however, this still did not turn the international community's eyes and ears to Gaza.

  Amran Jews Relocated to Sana'a; President Saleh Grants Each Jewish Family YR 2 Million

President Ali Abdullah Saleh ordered an immediate transfer of Jews residing in Amran province's Kharef and Raidah areas to Sana'a city after receiving death threats by unknown parties.

  Pirates Seize Yemeni Ship Carrying 2000 tons of Diesel

Almost a week after the release of  two Yemeni fishing boats, seized by Somali pirates early in December,   a Yemeni ship, carrying more than 2000 tons of diesel, was hijacked by pirates in the Arabian Sea en route to the Nashtoon port in the province of Mahra.

  Abducted Child Finally Released; South African Tourists Freed

A group of tribal sheikhs led successful mediation efforts as they managed to release the 8-year-old child Ali Mohammed Al-Oudaini who was abducted five days ago by Bani Dhabian tribesmen.

  After Fatal Assault of Dr. Al-Qadasi; Private Hospitals Demand Security Protection and Start Partial Strike

Private hospitals in the capital Sana'a started last Saturday a partial strike protesting the fatal assault against Dr. Dirhim Al-Qadasi from Science and Technology Hospital by an armed group led by Yousuf Al-Maflahi who claimed that Al-Qadasi killed his father by a medical error.

  Trial of Suspected Al-Qaeda Network Delayed until Next Week

The Special Penal Court has postponed the trial of the 2nd Al-Sunainah terrorist network, suspected of having links to Al-Qaeda, until next week.

  Project to Promote Rural Women's Rights to Be Launched In Dhamar

The Al Zahra'a Foundation for Women Development in Dhamar province is to launch a  project for promoting the rural women's right security.

  AFTZ  eyes Yemeni capitals in UK

The Aden Free Trade Zone AFTZ leadership has agreed with Yemeni immigrant businessmen in the United Kingdom to set up a joint committee that will make preparations for holding a symposium on investment in Aden, head of the AFTZ Abdul Jalil al-Shuaibi has said.

  Diesel stored at Guhaif oil facility is owned by corporation

The Yemen General Corporation for Oil, Gas and Mineral Resources has admitted it stored quantities of diesel at the Guhaif Oil Facility in an effort to meet its legal liabilities for official and private institutions.

  Pirates release second Yemeni boat, seize Egyptian cargo ship

Somali pirates have released the second Yemeni fishing boat, Al Qana'a, which was hijacked early in last month in the Gulf of Aden along with another boat, Al Faluja and fishermen onboard.

  Chief Rabbi receives SMS threats of cleansing

Chief Rabbi in the area of Kharef in Amran province Yahya Yaesh has said he has received threats through mobile phone text messages.  

  Arrest warrant for father and wife over five-year daughter maltreatment

A Yemeni court has issued an arrest warrant for a father and a wife in connection with maltreating a five-year daughter.

  Trial of Jew's killer in Amran marred by relatives

In Wednesday's court session, relatives of the murderer of a Jew in Amran attacked one of the soldiers at the court and publicly threatened to cleanse the victim's family and all Jews in the area.

  Thousands Protest in Support for Gaza More than 400 Killed and 2000 Injured

Hundreds of thousands protested throughout the country in protest to the Israeli airstrikes against innocent Palestinian civilians. Politicians, religious scholars and high ranking officials lead the protest demanding all Arab countries to stand with their Palestinian brothers with actions rather than with words.

  Aden Security Foils Escape Plot by Suspected Al-Qaeda Prisoners

Aden security authorities managed to foil an escape attempts by a group of suspected Al-Qaeda members, according to official media sources. 

  Seeking to Relocate Raidah Jews; Saleh Orders Granting them Land Plots

President Ali Abdullah Saleh has delegated Sheikh Yahya Mujahid Abu Shawarb to grant Jews of Raidah small plots of lands in the Capital Sana'a, especially after the Jewish minority, who still live in some areas of Amran province are subject to constant threats and harassment by extremists.

  IFES director dismisses reports he questions SCER operating

Executive Director of the International Foundation for Elections Systems in Yemen has dismissed media reports that he questions  the integrity of the Supreme Commission for Elections and Referendum (SCER) and accuses it of corruption  saying all the reports were untrue.

  Negotiations between Ruling Party and Opposition Resume; Probable Postponement of Elections

Informed sources revealed that a series of meetings are expected to be held over the coming days involving the leaders of the ruling party, the General People Congress (GPC) and opposition Parties represented in Joint Meeting Parties (JMP).

  Three Trialed over Spying for Israel

The State Specialized Penal Prosecution has just completed its investigations with three people accused of spying for Israel and their case will soon be referred to the Penal Court for trial. 

  Finance Minister Calls for Tightening Belts to Face Crisis

Minister of Finance Noman Al-Suhaibi mentioned that the measures being followed by the government over the last few days including cutting the estimated expenditures in state budget by 50 percent for 2009 will include all public facilities and economic units as well as the independent and supplement budgets of units.

  Arrested In Connection With German Kidnapping Sick; Clan Says President and Interior Minister Responsible

Few days after the release of three German nationals, who were taken hostage by tribesmen from the Bani Dhabyan tribe in Sana'a, one of the people of the Al Ahmed clan, one of the tribe's affiliates, detained in connection with the kidnapping fell sick at a prison in Sana'a.

  Handover of sites where homes for rain-affected people to take place next week

The local authority in the Wadi and Desert districts in the eastern province of Hadramout is due to hand over ready sites where quarters for rain-affected people to the Emirates Red Crescent next week.

  New amendments to custom law proposed

New amendments to the custom law have been submitted to Parliament for approval that were proposed to cope with active investment practice in the country, head of the Custom Authority Ali al-Zabeedi said on Wednesday.

  Hotels' threat to shut down

Promoted by a government decision to raise electricity tariffs paid by tourist facilities in the country by 78%, tens of hotel owners in the capital Sana'a and other provinces are threatening to close their hotels within a week if the government refused to repeal the decision.

  First National Conference on Industry Development culminated With Four MOUs with Malaysia

On the fringes of the First National Conference on Industry Development which concluded on Tuesday in Mukalla city, four memorandums of understanding were signed between Yemen and Malaysia.

  Amnesty International Expresses Concern Over Threat to Jews In Amran

The Amnesty International has expressed its concerns over the latest murder in which a Jew was killed in Amran province by a gunman and threats to the Jew community in the area warning Jews either embrace Islam or be killed.

  Two die in Saada as cold weather dips below zero

As cold weather gripping several provinces in the republic dips to 2-6 degrees below zero affecting crops badly, two of the war-displaced people in the northern province of Saada died as a result of the low temperatures. 

  Access Plus program launched

The program of Alternatives to Combat Child Labor through Education and Sustainable Services (Access Plus) was launched on Sunday in Sana'a by the CHF International and the Islah Charity Organization. 

  Al-Masder paper journalists' question postponed

Investigations with the editor in chief of Al-Masder, a weekly newspaper, and a staff writer, columnist Moneer Al-Mawri living in the United States of America,  were postponed to next Saturday after the newspaper's lawyer Khalid Al-Anesi asked to give him enough time to study the complaint and response to it.

  Tourism: Focus of The Government After Latest Kidnapping

Opening the annual consultative meeting on tourism, prime minister Ali Muhammad Mujawar said the government gives priority to the tourist sector as it is one of the most important economic resources in any country.

  Cold Wave Causes Losses to Farmers and Raises Crop Prices

Sources in the National Center for Weather Forecasting told media that temperature dipped six degree below zero in some provinces in the country. Saturday night or early Sunday in Sana'a, Thamar, and Al-Dhalei was 6 degrees below zero, according to meteorologists at the National Weather Service.

  Yemen Has To Disprove Information On Ban On Exporting Weapons To Somalia

Yemen is  to  give a detailed explanation to the UN in an effort to  disprove information on a ban on exporting weapons to Somalia, a source at the Foreign ministry has said.

  Interior Minister Denies Paying Ransom; German Hostages Released Unharmed

Three German hostages were set free after a group of tribal sheikhs led successful mediation efforts, putting an end to six days in captivity.

  Preparing for 2009 Parliamentary Elections; High Ranking Officials Resign Government Posts

Informed sources told the Yemen Post that 15 high ranking officials have submitted their resignation from their posts in preparations for their candidacy for the parliamentary elections due to be conducted in April 2009.

  Prompted by Collapse of Oil Prices; Cabinet Cuts 50 Percent of 2009 Budget

Cabinet approved cutting 50 percent of 2009 budget allocations which mounted to YR 1.5 trillion. This decision was justified by the recent drop in oil prices especially when it fell dramatically to nearly $30, instead of the $148 it reached last July.

  Amnesty International: Human Rights in Yemen See Major Setbacks in 2008

Amnesty International's recent report on human rights and the rule of law in Yemen stated that the country has seen a major setback over the year 2008, despite the fact that the country was making slight progress in the past.

  Germany Deploys 1,400 Troops to Combat Piracy in Gulf of Aden

German government agreed to send 1,400 troops and a frigate to join EU forces positioned in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean with the aim of protecting trade vessels and prevent further attacks of pirates, German sources reported.

  Human Rights Minister Frustrated, European Commission criticizes Yemen's human rights record

Minister of Human Rights Huda Al-Ban mentioned that a draft law on preventing execution of children under 18 years of age is stalled in parliament, hinting that Yemeni legislations are built on Islamic teachings.

  Ruling party allocated almost YR 60 billion to buy votes in 2003, IFES expert

The ruling party allocated almost YR 60 billion to buy votes in the 2003 parliamentary elections in an attempt  to increase its election opportunities in Parliament, an international expert specialized in the election affairs said.

  Security on alert in Hadramout after information a terrorist group may carry out attacks

Security forces in the eastern province of Hadramout are on alert as they got  information on possible attacks by an extremist group believed to have  links to al-Qaeda on facilities including the Mukala bridge.

  Training course on inter-group negotiation for Yemeni Teacher Syndicate leadership

A training course on inter-group negotiation for the leadership of the Yemeni Teacher Syndicate started on Tuesday in Sana'a.

  Traffic Accidents Claim 88 Lives; Hundreds Injured over Eid Vacation

Dozens of people were killed and over 400 hundred others injured in 360 traffic accidents recorded nationwide during Eid vacation, according to the reports by the General Traffic Authority.

  Chief Rabbi's Brother Killed;  Jewish Community Seeks Protection

The Specialized Penal Prosecution will investigate Abdul Aziz Mahmoud Al-Abdi, a former officer in the Yemeni Air Force, for killing Jewish businessman Moshe bin Ya'aish bin Yahya, 35.

  Bad Economic Policies Blamed for Children Drop out: Study

Improper economic policies is to be blamed for children’s daily struggle for survival that often sees them ending up as drug addicts, drug dealers or even as sex slaves in the case of girls  according to a study.

  US Ambassador Hails Success of Yemeni Forces in Tackling Crime

At his meeting with the Minister of Interior, the US Ambassador to Sana'a Stephen Seche hailed strides the Yemeni security systems have made in the fight on terror and controlling crime.

  Poor Attendance of Public Servants; Civil Ministry Threatens to Make Deductions

The Ministry of Civil Service and Insurances warned against the absence following Eid vacation which ended last Friday, hinting the official office hours was resumed last Saturday.

  Yemen, Egypt in Talks Over Social Insurance Cooperation

The General Authority for Social Insurance and the Egyptian Social Insurance Authority held on Saturday talks that dealt with the project of an agreement for cooperation in the social insurance area.

  Yemen Preparing  First Human Rights Strategy

Minister of Human Rights Huda Al-Ban said that the ministry is preparing the first national strategy for human rights, that will  focus on several fields,  most important of which the partnership between civil society organizations and women's rights, particularly political rights.

  More Aids for Flood Victims in Hadramout and Al-Mahrah

The Japanese Embassy donated $800,000 in aid to alleviate the suffering of flood victims in Hadramout and Al-Mahrah provinces. This was made in response to the Yemeni plan presented to the United Nations.

  JMP and Government Clash; Opposition Protest Turns Bloody

Confrontations between security forces and demonstrators affiliated with the opposing Joint Meeting Parties (JMP) left 23 protesters injured, three in serious condition, as protesters were attacked by governmental forces. Governmental sources were forced at times to shoot bullets to the air to disperse protesters from the scene.

  Four Killed, Five Injured; Somali Pirates open Fire on Yemeni Sailors in Red Sea

Four Yemeni sailors were killed and five others injured as Somali pirates opened fire on them in Yemen's territorial waters in the Red Sea. Some sailors who escaped the attack said they surprisingly were hailed by a shower of bullets from machine rifles the pirates used.

  Bin Laden's Former Driver Comes Back to Finish Sentence in Yemen

Salem Hamdan, a Yemeni detainee who was being held in the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, was received by the Yemeni authorities to finish his sentence in Yemen.

  President Saleh Calls for Forming International Force to Fight Piracy in Red Sea and Arab Gulf

President Saleh called on the international community to form an international force for confronting the pirates in collaboration with international forces and the countries situated on the Red Sea and the Arab Gulf. "An effective international force must be formed to prevent piracy," Saleh said.

  Backed By JMP, Ibb Protests Denounce Coup Against Democracy

Many demonstrations were held in various districts of Ibb province  in protest against what protestors claim is the election expropriation and the coup against  democracy.

  Capital Motorists Banned from Working at Night

Motorbikes must not work after 8 o'clock at night, according to a recent resolution by the Cabinet. The resolution seeks to regulate the work of motorbikes and redistribute them nationwide.

  Civil Society Organizations Working In Maternal And Childhood Field Poor Performance, Despite Large Number

Despite the number of the civil society organizations working in the maternal and childhood field, only a few number of these organizations have real presence on the ground.

  Yemen: Fear of Failure

Yemen presents a potent combination of problems for policy-makers confronting the prospect of state failure in this strategically important Red Sea country. It is the poorest state in the Arab world, with high levels of unemployment, rapid population. growth and dwindling water resources.

  In National Consultation Committee's Meeting,JMP Assures Stalled Dialogue with Ruling Party

The Joint Meeting Parties (JMP) in its National Consultation Committee's meeting assured that opposition parties are upset over the stalled dialogue with the ruling party General People Congress (GPC).

  Ruling Party Accuses Ministry of Lenience with Islah Mosque Preachers

The specialized panel court sentenced last Saturday an Iranian to death, and eleven other Iranians and two Pakistanis to 25 years in prison for drug smuggling.

  38 Percent of Sa'ada Children Living in Fear;(Study)

A study conducted by (SEYAJ) Organization for Childhood Protecting showed that 45% of children in Saada suffer psychological and behavioral disorders due to the war they experienced in their areas during the past four years.

  Government and Houthis Accused of Blocking Aid to Sada'a

Human Rights Watch called on the Yemeni government and Houthis to allow international aid to access civilians affected during the war between the government and Huthies, clamming that they were usually prevented from accessing rural areas at military checkpoints.

  Yemen's Grandest Mosque Inaugurated

President Ali Abdullah Saleh officially inaugurated "Al-Saleh Mosque" located in the capital's Al-Sabeen zone. The inauguration ceremony was attended by high-ranking guests and scholars from across the Arab and Islamic worlds.

  As Saleh Launches LNG First Phase; Domestic Gas Crisis Surfaces Again

The specialized panel court sentenced last Saturday an Iranian to death, and eleven other Iranians and two Pakistanis to 25 years in prison for drug smuggling.

  Dynamite and Explosive Devices Found in Abyan's Khanfer District

The Security Information Office in the Ministry of Interior told media outlets that  security officials in Khanfer, Abyan's district found last Saturday 140 kilograms of dynamite and explosive devises near the security officials head office.

  Panel Court Sentences Iranian to Death; Eleven Iranians and Two Pakistanis get Twenty Five Years in Jail

The specialized panel court sentenced last Saturday an Iranian to death, and eleven other Iranians and two Pakistanis to 25 years in prison for drug smuggling.

  Minister Resigns after being Accused of Working with Opposition

Minister of Local Administration Abdul Kadir Hilal handed Saturday his resignation to President Ali Abdullah Saleh, being the second resigning minister in the new government over the last couple of months.

  200,000 New Voters Register for  Upcoming Elections so far

Almost 200,000 new voters have  headed so far to electoral registration centers across the republic during the first three days after the processes of voter roll revision and rectification were launched.

  Oil Revenues Increase Despite Global soaring Prices of Oil

Oil revenues increased during the third quarter of this year to YR 3.8 billion, up from YR 2.8 billion in the same period last year. The increase was at 36 percent.

  Court sets Date for Ruling on Watani Bank Case

The Specialized Penal Court set November 18 as a date for delivering a verdict on the case of wasting the money of shareholders at the Watani Bank for Trade and Investment.

  Fishermen held by Somali Pirates still in Danger

Negotiations got  underway to release 28 Yemeni fishermen who were held by Somali pirates off Socotra island in the Arab Sea four months ago, informed sources said.

  Preparations Underway for Yemeni-Saudi Coordination Council Round

Meetings of  the Yemeni-Saudi Follow up Committee, affiliated to the Yemeni-Saudi Coordination Council,  started on Saturday in Sana'a.

  Four Yemeni Citizens Killed in Saudi Borders

Four Yemenis were killed near the Saudi border with Yemen as they were trying to penetrate into Saudi lands in a car which carrying Qat.

  Arrested over Strike at Aden Port Released

Security forces in Aden released on Saturday members of the Labor Union Committee who were arrested at the Aden Container Terminal over  the strike that was held by Aden port workers.

  Four Yemeni Citizens Killed in Saudi Borders

Four Yemenis were killed near the Saudi border with Yemen as they were trying to penetrate into Saudi lands in a car which carrying Qat.

  Chinese Parliamentary Delegation leaves Yemen

After a few-day visit to the country during which it held fruitful talks with parliament members, the Chinese parliamentary delegation is leaving Yemen.

  Arab Peace and Security Council Reaches no Agreement over Fighting Piracy

In its second meeting, Arab Peace and Security Council, affiliated with the Arab League, failed to reach an agreement over a united Arab approach to fight piracy off Somalia coasts.

  Ruling Party Revolted against Democracy, Sheikh Al-Ahmar says; Accuses them of Destroying the Country

Yemeni parliament member and Islah party representative Sheikh Hamid Al-Ahmar said in an interview with Al-Jazeera News Station that the Joint Meeting Parties (JMP) will not participate in the upcoming elections if its participation would be weak and limited.

  President Saleh Visits Russia Soon Yemen to Sign Large Weapon Deals

Official sources revealed that President Ali Abdullah Saleh is expected to visit Russia next Wednesday. The visit marks the 80th anniversary of Yemeni-Russian bilateral relations.

  Aden Container Terminal Workers Go on Strike; DP World Officially Takes over Management Operations

As soon DP World, Aden-Dubai Company for Ports Development, announced officially last Thursday taking over management operations in Aden Container Terminal, the containers terminal workers started a comprehensive strike within the terminal premises.

  Teachers Protest Injustice of District Education Officials

Dozens of teachers from Saber Al-Mawadem district in Taiz staged a sit-in last Saturday before the governorate building in protest against the measures taken by Saber Al-Mawadem education office.

  Refuting Attempted Assassination and Land Confiscation; Official Source Denies Haider Al-Attas's Claims

An official source denied that President Saleh had ordered confiscating lands belonging to former prime minister Haider Abu Bakr Al-Attas in Hadramout and denied any plan for assassinating him.

  Clashes between Security Forces and Armed Groups in Lahj

An informed source told the Yemen Post that armed groups attacked security forces that were accompanying the committee for revising and amending voters' tables in Habail Jabr of Lahj governorate.

  Sana'a International Airport Holds Ceremony to Honor Excellent Performance

A ceremony was held at Sana'a International Airport to honor the chairman of Immigration, Passport and Naturalization Authority Dr. Abdullah Jubari for his contribution to the success achieved by the Immigration, Passport and Naturalization Authority Headquarter.

  Nearly All Yemenis Agree Religion not linked to Terrorism: YPC Study

In a study, conducted by the Yemeni Polling Center (YPC), 94.75 percent of respondents don't link terror with religion.

  New Disaster at Doorsteps; Relief Activities Continue in Eastern Provinces

Heavy rains are still falling in different areas of Yemen especially the mountainous area of the midlands, causing huge damages to the country's infrastructure as was the case in Al-Hodeidah province where floods destroyed houses and farms.

  Al-Sarimah Intends to Sue Authorities, Aden Container Terminal Handed Over to DP World

The final delivery process of Aden Containers Terminal and Al-Mu'alla Sea Port between Gulf of Aden Port Corporation and Aden-Dubai Company for Ports Development, known as DP World, started last Saturday.

  Anti-Corruption Committee Receives more Financial Disclosures; Threatens to Penalize Others

Head of Financial Disclosure Sector at The Supreme National Authority for Combating Corruption Mohammed Hamoud Al-Matari revealed that his authority has received about 10,000 disclosures.

  Protesting Government's Absence, Private Sector Cancels Partnership Conference

Private sector representatives canceled last Saturday "Dialogue and Partnership Conference" in protest against the absence of concerned government officials who had earlier showed readiness to participate in the conference.

  After confiscating their Boats, 46 Yemeni Fishermen Sent back Home

Eritrean authorities released 46 Yemeni fishermen who were earlier arrested by the Eritrean navy while they were fishing in Yemen's regional waters. The fishermen were forced to head to Masoua Seaport at gunpoint.

  Tarim Architecture Center Appeals for Protecting Shibam Heritage

The Damascus-based Tarim Architecture Center has issued an urgent appeal for all concerned individuals, countries, government and non government organizations to provide the required assistance to restrict the damages caused to Tarim, enlisted in World Heritage List, by the heavy rains witnessed late last October.

  Penal Court to Sentence Iranian Drug and Hashish Smugglers This November

The State Specialized Penal Court approved on Saturday to adjourn the pronouncement of 12 Iranian and Pakistani people accused of smuggling and trading drugs and Hashish until mid November.

  Yemen Demands Deploying Peace-Keeping Forces to Somalia

Yemen Foreign Minister Abu Bakr Al-Qirbi demanded the international community to deploy peace-keeping forces to Somalia to keep the fragile peace agreement that was recently signed between the interim government and opposition coalition in Djibouti.

  Heavy Rains Kill 61 and Destroy 1,800 Homes Thousands Still Without Shelter

At least 61 people have been confirmed dead and another 48 missing in one of the worst rainstorms the country has faced in more than a decade. Nearly all Yemeni provinces have seen heavy rains this week; however, Hadramout and Mahra were the hardest hit.

  Amidst Calls for Boycotting Elections; Al-Eryani Delegated to Negotiate with JMP

President Ali Abdullah Saleh's Advisor on Political Affairs Abdul Karim Al-Eryani has not yet announced the start of negotiations with opposition parties represented in Joint Meeting Parties (JMP) though he was officially delegated by Saleh to initiate dialogue with them.

  Locals Fear Possible War between Houthis and Saqeen Tribes

Local sources from Sa'ada revealed that the situation is still tense between a group of tribes from Saqeen area and Houthi loyalists following clashes that left one person dead.

  Jewish Rabbi Requests Saleh to Appoint Him as Advisor on Yemeni-American Jews Affairs

Media source mentioned that Rabbi Fayez Al-Garadi, head of Shebzi Jews, requested President Ali Abdullah Saleh to appoint him as advisor for the Jewish Yemeni Community in America.

  Rockslides in Sana'a, and Fire Destroys Two Shops in Aden

Over the last few days, heavy rains fell throughout Yemen and caused huge human and material losses. It also blocked some vital highways that link the country's different provinces. 

  Parliament Postpones Discussions of Additional Credit; Demands Inclusion of Relief Aids

Parliament has postponed discussions of additional credit draft law for the 2008 budget mounting to YR 660 billion after several MPs demanded the government to promptly decide the volume of money required for reconstructing the flood-affected areas in Hadramout and Al-Mahrah to be inset within the additional credit.

  Court Look into Iranian Drug Smugglers Next Saturday

The State Specialized Penal Court decided to hold the final proceedings session next Saturday to look into the case of 13 Iranians accused of entering Yemen's regional waters illegally together with possessing hashish.

  Sana'a 25th Book Fair Wraps up

According to the Chairman of the General Authority for the Book Faris Al-Saqqaf, about one million people visited the 25th Sana'a International Book Fair 2008 that wrapped up last Sunday.

  Seven Military Ships Heading to Bab Al-Mandab Strait and Gulf of Aden Regional Summit for Fighting Piracy Postponed

Yemen announced that it will postpone the regional summit for fighting piracy, which was planned to be held in Sana'a next week. Participating countries were expected to sign a memorandum of understanding for mutual cooperation between them in fighting piracy.

 

A senior US official recently revealed his country's serious intention to support Yemen to join the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), as he expressed the importance of partnership between Yemen and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

 

Earlier this week, parliament approved the International Convention on Protecting and Promoting the Rights of Disabled people.

 

Local sources from Yaf'e, a mountainous area in the southern of Yemen, said that tribal men from Yaf'e's Nakheb region managed to transfer Hassan Ba-Aum, a leader in the Southern Movement to a safe place, where he could avoid governmental forces who were searching for him.

 

Local sources told the Yemen Post that a battle started in Amran governorate, Al-Ishah district, between Al-Isaimat and Al-Suda tribes.

 

Books of all languages went up for sale at the 25th Annual International Book Fair that started last Wednesday.

 

Mareb's electricity gas station started last Saturday its first experimental work, in preparation for the inauguration of the project in January 2009. Currently, work is being done to link the power station to the capital Sana'a.

 

The German Government awarded YR 2,600,000 for the construction of two classrooms in Bani Sowaid, Dhawran Directorate Dhamar Governorate.

 

“Over recent weeks, attention has focused on the size of financial packages, and on the impact on Main Street. There are Main Streets all over the world. We must look beyond the financial rescue to the human rescue,” President of the World Bank Bob Zoellick, told journalists at his Annual Meetings opening press conference Thursday.

 

Economy professor Abdullah Al-A'dhi told the Yemen Post that the current financial crisis across the world, especially in America, will directly affect the Yemeni economy which is directly tied to the U.S. Dollar.

 

The Supreme Council of the Joint Meeting Parties (JMP) called upon its branches and members in all provinces and election centers to adhere to JMP announced stances and not to deal with the present Supreme Commission for Elections and Referendum (SCER).

 

Yemen Polling Center (YPC) started implementing a comprehensive survey on companies and economic Yemeni establishments in preparation of a field study on 'Corporate Governance'.

 

The United Nation High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said last Friday that nearly 100 illegal Somali Emigrants were missing in the Gulf of Aden after the carrying boat forced them to jump into the water while they were still far from the Yemeni coasts.

 

Yemen Post staff members left last Sunday for Azerbaijan to participate in observing the presidential elections conducted over the period Oct. 14 -17.

 

Yemen Football Federation threatened to refer a violation case to the International Federation of Football (FIFA) and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), against the suppressive practices of the Junior Asia Cup Tournament organizers, in defense of the Junior Yemeni Team.

 

The fourth round meetings of the joint Yemeni-Turkey committee were launched last Sunday in Sana'a. Both sides signed several agreements, memorandums of understanding and protocols of cooperation.

 

A seven year old child was killed and two citizens injured after a gunman opened fire on locals attending prayer inside a Mosque in Al-Dalie governorate Nawa village.

 

The State Specialized Penal Court adjourned sentence session of 36 Al-Qaeda elements including Jabr Al-Bana who is listed on the FBI most wanted people. The verdicts were to be issued last Saturday.

 

Yemeni government welcomed the verdict of the U.S. Appeal Court in Sheikh Mohammed Al-Moayad and his companion Mohammed Zayed's case which stated that both men were innocent of accusations attributed to them and ordered their release.

 

On Saturday, 35 African refugees died near Dhubab coast of Taiz when their boat flipped over. Only five managed to live the tragedy.

 

The first day after Eid Vacation saw weak attendance in all public sector institutions, especially in schools, despite the different warnings by Ministry of Education officials for teachers to attend their schools.

 

Yemeni Coastguards, Aden Gulf Sector, managed to seize a Pakistani boat boarding four tons of Hashish, though they were skillfully covered inside the boat to mislead coastguard personnel.

 

An open day ceremony for labor/working children was conducted last week, in efforts to aware people of  the dangers and negative effects of child labor. Organized by Saudi German Hospital, Community Service Program (CSP), the ceremony included hundreds of children who were given support and a chance to get their childhood back.

 

Regardless of the similarity of Eid customs among Muslims in Arab and Islamic countries, every country and community has its own customs. However, visiting friends, relatives, and neighbors, and paying respect to the deceased are nearly similar in all Arab and Muslim countries as they were inherited from their religious backgrounds.

 

Being one of the seasons in which Muslims get closer to Allah, the blessed month of Ramadan sees always more Islamic drama series as well as Islamic programs. Further, media outlets and satellite channels intensify their activities as they set and prepare different religious programs produced especially for this month.

 

The last terrorist operation that targeted the American Embassy on September 15 has depicted the capacity of Yemeni security forces to avert bigger terrorist attacks on a strategic target, considered so by Al-Qaeda.

 

Yemeni political parties regularly conduct activities known as night events or "Ramadan Events" and these events were made in the past by state as there were no political forces present in the political field.

  In Ramadan, Prices were too Expensive for Consumers; People resort to buying from Street sellers, Study Says

A public opinion survey revealed that burdens have increased on Yemeni families as a result of the increase in family needs from goods and other household products that were purchased during the month of Ramadan.

 

The U.S. State Department recommended that all non-emergency personnel and their families at the Sana'a,-based U.S. Embassy leave the country following a terrorist attack on the embassy's building that killed 17 people, mostly Yemenis.

 

Armed tribesmen kidnapped two Colombian engineers along with their driver and a security guard in Shabwa, some 458 km to the southeast of Sana'a, the capital, as they were heading to the Balhaf Project site.

 

Local sources revealed that three tribesmen were killed and several others injured when tribesmen from Al-Jawf's Al-Showlan tribes exchanged fire with Houthi followers.

 

Ministry of Industry and Trade warned last Friday of a possible Chinese contaminated milk powder called (Iachele) being distributed in the Yemeni markets.

 

Following the recent Al-Qaeda attack on the U.S. Embassy, Yemeni officials vowed to hunt down Al-Qaeda cells in the country and bring them before justice.

 

Traffic accidents are blamed for killing and wounding thousands of people every year. Traffic accidents that occurred over the period January to July left behind 1,477 Yemeni citizens of both sexes dead, according to a report issued by the General Administration for Traffic.

 

Heated war of words between the ruling party, the General People Congress (GPC) and main opposition parties' coalition represented in Joint Meeting Parties (JMP) is ongoing and observers expected the forthcoming elections to be different from the previous ones, especially when there is always more than one scenario.

 

A recent Saudi field study revealed that over 3,500 Yemeni children are arrested monthly by Saudi security forces. These children are smuggled illegally into the Kingdom for labor and begging purposes, and some are even used in the illegal sex market.

 

In a surprise move, President Saleh ordered the release of 12 opposition members who were arrested and jailed over wide protests and unrest that occurred last April in some Southern provinces.

 

Minister of Interior Brig. Mutahar Rashad Al-Masri called on Yemeni media not to engage the security forces in the political game or turn them into material for cheap political gains that harm the overarching interest of the country.

 

Within the frame of the ongoing crisis between both sides, the opposition parties block represented by the Joint Meeting Parties and the ruling party – the General People Congress (GPC) started a war of words especially after they failed to reach any agreement over the formation of the Supreme Commission for Elections and Referendum (SCER).

 

Tourism Minister Nabil Al-Faqih told media that Mareb province's Ramalat Al-Saba'teen will host a tourism festival next December. The festival is considered the first of its type on the edge of the Empty Quarter desert.

 

The Supreme National Authority for Combating Corruption (SNACC) hinted that it could take legal procedures against state officials who failed to submit their financial disclosures to the authority.

 

The United Sates Security Advisory Board (USSAB) assured that political violence is rampant in Yemen and occurs constantly against demonstrators, adding that the Yemeni government seeks to assert its authority over demonstrators through violence.

 

A report issued recently by the Central Bank of Yemen revealed that the country consumed over 10 million barrels of oils during the first half of 2008.

 

Over 5.4 million basic and secondary school students nationwide are supposed to join their schools last Saturday marking the start of the new academic year 2008-2009.

 

Security authorities are due to release a new batch of 132 prisoners detained over Sa'ada events . This comes in implementation of President Saleh's recent directives.

 

Yemen will host a regional centre for combating piracy, which has been on the rise over the last few months especially in the international waters between Yemen and Somalia.

 

Twenty one citizens were killed by separate lighting strikes that accompanied heavy rainfall in some provinces last August, according to Interior Ministry.

 

Preparations at Yemeni Foreign Ministry are underway for President Saleh's expected visit to Russia in which he seeks to buy large quantities of weapons.

 

The Kuwaiti Embassy in Sana'a donated over 2,000 books to Sana'a University. The same quantity was gifted to Studies and Research Center headed by Dr. Abdul Aziz Al-Maqaleh.

 

Following increased commercial frauds in Yemen timed with Ramadan's advent, the Yemeni Society for Consumer Protection (YSCP) called on concerned authorities to act responsibly and prevent any deceiving practices targeting consumers during the Blessed Month of Ramadan.

 

For the first time in Yemen a female preacher talked in a public gathering openly. In a symposium organized by Bonat Organization, Mulook Al-Rada'ee, the guest speaker called attendees to follow religious practices and abide by Islamic policies.

 

Minister of Endowments and Guidance Hamoud Al-Hitar revealed that 20,000 Yemenis will perform Omrah this year, hinting that the private sector is delegated to prepare everything for the Omrah performers while his ministry will just supervise and control the whole process.

 

Appointed under a republican decree, the head and five other members of the Supreme Commission for Elections and Referendum (SCER) took the constitutional oaths before President Saleh on Saturday, while those representing the Joint Meeting Parties (JMP) did not attend.

 

The Editor in Chief of Al-Ray Al’am (Public Opinion) newspaper Kamal Al-Olfi revealed that his newspaper's office was set into fire by anonymous elements last Friday.

 

Local sources in Abyan told the Yemen Post that a key fundamentalist, named Khalid Abdul Nabi, surrendered to security authorities on Friday after an intense exchange of fire between a group of his followers and security forces in Abyan's Ja'ar city.

 

Security sources mentioned on Sunday that Interior Ministry seized nearly 1,400,000 capsules of drugs since the beginning of 2008.

 

Eight locals were injured and the attacker killed in a suicide bombing after Friday's prayer last week in Hajja's Al-Mahabishah district, governmental sources mentioned.

 

Three workers were buried under the rubble when a two-floor building collapsed on them Saturday. The accident occurred in Sana'a, Hadda area, as workers were cementing the third floor.

 

Security forces raided last Friday a weapons storehouse that was discovered by incident in Hadramout's Thamoud desert, only a few weeks after security forces raided a house that used to accommodate some Al-Qaeda members. The weapons ranged from medium and light arms.

 

The final statement of Yemen Mobile Company, one of the leading operators of mobile telecommunications services through CDMA system, showed record rises in its net profits over the last year.

 

In a letter directed to President Saleh, several Bani Dhabyan Tribal Sheikhs requested Saleh to interfere for stopping what they described as the stark violations of law and constitution by the Interior Ministry.

 

Palestinian Ambassador to Yemen Ahmed Al-Deek denied what was reported by the Deputy Ambassador of the Palestinian Embassy in Sana'a that the embassy will close its doors, due to the numerous and different representation the country has in Yemen.

 

The General People Congress's (GPC) General Committee renewed its call for all political forces to participate actively in the forthcoming parliamentary elections due to be held in April 2009, considering it to be a step forward in the field of democratic development.

 

In a recent report, the control administration at the Supreme Board for Drugs & Medical Appliances recorded over 170 cases of counterfeited and smuggled medicines during the first half of 2008.

 

Britain has canceled a circular it had issued earlier that warned British citizens from traveling to Yemen except those who travel to the country for urgent purposes.

 

The committee in charge of safety and security affiliated with Interior Ministry decided to halt gas cylinder imports for six months in an effort to assess the current situation of cylinders available in the market.

 

Sources at Yemeni Oil Ministry announced that the Paris-based International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) ruled for canceling any claim of any new legal agreement between Hunt Oil Company and Yemeni government.

 

Security sources told media that wide campaigns have started by security apparatuses to hunt down 35 suspects, after security authorities received valuable information from the elements arrested last week in Haramout's Tarim.

 

Opposition blocs finally decided to end their boycott of parliament after JMP leaders managed on Saturday to get written presidential orders to set free a large number of political prisoners, following a meeting with President Saleh.

 

The ministerial committee tasked with assessing Sa'ada war damages led by the Minister of Local Administration is expected to present its report this week to the cabinet stating the required projects.

 

Hundreds of people died in different incidents including drowning, traffic accidents, and fires over the last 45 days, according to security reports.

 

Tribal sources told the Yemen Post that two people from Al Jim'an Tribe were killed in Mareb's Magzar district in a shootout with security forces that arrived in the area, demanding the tribe to free the National Democratic Institute's (NDI) car. The NDI driver was released last month.

 

The United States Secretary of State decided last week to return back its Embassy's employees to Sana'a. 

 

The Saudi Deputy Minister of Interior Mohammed bin Naif bin Abdul Aziz concluded a surprise visit to Sana'a in which he met with President Ali Abdullah Saleh and other Yemeni officials at Interior Ministry.

 

The Ministry of Education announced the new academic year 2008-2009 will start nationwide as of September 6, stressing that Ramadan month will be the first month in the first semester that lasts for 90 days.

 

Following President Saleh's announcement that Sa'ada war was over, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) demanded last Saturday better access to people who were affected by the war in the province.

 

The Arab Ba'ath Socialist party earlier this month presented a proposal to join the Joint Meeting Parties (JMP).

 

In an effort to pressurize the authorities and set their fellows free, Al-Qaeda wing in Yemen threatened to launch more attacks on foreign facilities and interests, especially oil industry which has been recently a target for their terrorist operations.

 

The People General Congress building wall was attacked and taken down in Loader, Abyan, exploded last Friday by unknown elements.

 

Regional Manager at the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, Ms. Hind Khatib-Othman arrived to Sana'a last Saturday.

 

President Ali Abdullah Saleh received last Saturday the Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyadh, currently visiting the country for revitalizing the Yemeni initiative for reconciliation between Fatah and Hamas.

 

On the frame of his participation in Water and Sustainable Development Show 2008, Water and Environment official at the World Bank (WB) Naji Abu Hatem told official media that preparations are underway for addressing water sector in Yemen through a project costing $360 million.

 

France warned its citizens against traveling to Yemen under the reasons of violent clashes and the kidnapping that tourist's might face in Yemen.

 

The field ministerial committee charged with evaluating war damages in Sa'ada headed by the Minister of Local Administration Abdul Qader Hilal paid a field visit to Dhahian district, one of the most war-affected districts in province.

 

Media sources revealed that 13 illegal Yemeni emigrants died in Al-Muhmel desert to the south of Saudi Arabia's Baishah province as they were trying to infiltrate into Saudi lands in search for work and money.

 

The political crisis over forming the Supreme Commission for Elections and Referendum (SCER) is still ongoing between the political forces represented in the ruling party, the General People Congress (GPC) and opposition parties, Joint Meeting Parties (JMP).

 

The Social Welfare Fund field researchers' teams completed nearly 51 percent of its task that targeted families that need Social Fund's assistance. Further, 762,943 cases were reported in need for fund according to the study. 

 

The Scotland Yard announced the name of the Yemeni billionaire Shaher Abdul Haq's son Farouk among those wanted in connection with a murder crime.

 

The Islamic Liberation Party, Yemen branch, demanded shutting down the National Democratic Institute (NDI), the Danish Institute and other foreign organizations because they pose great risk on the Yemeni society's culture and its sons.

 

A recently established radical Islamic group known as Islamic Jihad Organization claimed responsibility for Friday’s attack and threatened to launch more attack targeting every corrupt part in Yemen.

 

Seeking to escape the stalled talks with the Joint Meeting Parties (JMP), the General People Congress (GPC) resorted to having talks and sign agreements with the National Democratic Coalition (NDC).

 

Sa'ada governor announced that 70 percent of displaced citizens have returned to their homes and villages, while 30 percent are still living in refugee camps.

 

President Ali Abdullah Saleh received last Saturday the Sudanese Minister of Justice Abdul Baset Sabdarat, the envoy of Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir.

 

Hundreds of Al-Eman University students, staged a sit-in last Thursday in the campus in protest against the expelling of female student Nussibah Al-Shamiri from the university.

 

Chairman of the Board of Directors of Al-Shulif Company for Trading and Investment Ahmed Ali Al-Shulif pointed out that a joint coalition of Gulf, British and Yemeni investors intend to build a cement factory in Mareb at total costs of $260 million.

 

After receiving death threats, a Yemeni company charged with organizing the concert of Egyptian singer Eyhab Tawfiq decided to cancel, it as it was previously scheduled for July 23.

 

The Specialized Penal Prosecution is still investigating with what security sources called the most dangerous drug dealer in Yemen Ali Abdullah bin Hitiqan Al-Saya’ri.

 

Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh announced on Thursday that the Houthi rebellion in Sa'ada province is over following more than six months of war.

 

The tribal blockade of highways and road networks has led to a big crisis in gas and diesel supplies and prevented the smooth movement of tanks and trucks carrying such derivatives from Mareb to other provinces.

 

The Secretary General of the National Population Council Ahmed Ali Burgi pointed out that Yemen's population increases at a very high rate, one of the highest worldwide.

 

Tribal sources told the Yemen Post that a tribal war is potential in Al-Zaher district involving Aa’l Hamad Hussein Tribe (from Al-Ashraf Tribe) and Aa’l Abu Hussein from Al-Ashwlan Tribe.

 

Sana'a University's Law professor Abdul Mumen Shuja Addin stated that Arabic language is blamed for discrimination against woman.

 

In collaboration with the General Federation of Workers Trade Union (GFWTU), the Yemen Polling Center organized a three-day seminar on leadership program on Strategic Planning.

 

The Director-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Koïchiro Matsuura pointed out that his organization is keen about supporting the Sana'a-based Science Museum, considering it to be among the prioritized project over the coming period.

 

The Central Committee of Yemen Sons League Party (YSL), that froze its activities following 1994 civil war, held its second round of discussions in Sana'a last Wednesday.

 

According to official media, Abdullah, the elder son of Hussein Badr Addin Al-Houthi, whose father was killed by government forces in 2004, denounced the sabotage acts in Sa’ada.

 

In a statement released last Saturday, Yemeni Journalists Syndicate (YJS) denounced on Saturday the suppressive security measures against journalists.

 

Several civil society organizations, pressmen, politicians and human rights activists staged a sit-in last Sunday before parliament demanding termination of enforced disappearance of citizens over Sa'ada war.