Recent developments in Yemen are alarming and could pose a serious threat to the entire Gulf region if steps are not taken to contain them. This is a goal of great urgency as stability is very much needed in Yemen.
Al Qaida has announced that it has taken control of a small town called Rada in Al Baidah province. The Al Qaida-affiliated insurgents stormed the town located in the south-west of Yemen, attacked the central prison and freed many inmates, according to the Ministry of Defence. "The militants looted the intelligence office, set fire to the building, kidnapped soldiers, and took their armed vehicles", the ministry said. Yemeni Vice-President Abd Rabbo Mansour Hadi, the acting president, has made an appeal to the international community for assistance to eradicate terrorism in the country.
These developments are alarming and should be taken very seriously. The fact that this group has been able to advance and take control of the town is indicative of its strong presence, organisation, and the agenda it is following. Yemen cannot afford to be held hostage by such a group and hence, steps should be taken to end its presence once and for all.
