Yemen: Suicide bombing kills at least 14 soldiers in south January 30

Event

A suicide bomb killed at least 14 soldiers and wounded dozens more at a security checkpoint in Shabwa province on Tuesday, January 30. Al-Qa'ida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) is believed to be behind the attack. Local security sources report that AQAP fighters opened fired at Yemeni police forces using a machine gun and mortars.

Context

Shabwa province is controlled by the internationally recognized government led by President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi. However, AQAP continues to control territory in southern Yemen as of early 2018, allying themselves with local Sunni tribes. In August 2017, UAE-backed forces in Yemen launched a campaign in southern Yemen against Islamist militants, including the Islamic State and AQAP, with the support of the United States (mostly drone strikes).

Advice

The security environment in Yemen remains complex. Due to poor security conditions, many Western governments strongly advise their citizens against all travel to Yemen. Travel to the country should only be considered with proper security protocols in place. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.