Al Qaeda-linked militants control territory in south Yemen, where a Yemeni military offensive is ongoing. The prolonged political crisis in Sana’a has opened up space for armed groups, such as al Qaeda and the al Houthis, to seize territory.

The Yemeni military offensive against al Qaeda-linked militants continues in Abyan governorate. A senior Yemeni defense official reported that the 25th mechanized brigade shelled militant positions in Zinjibar, killing five al Qaeda-linked militants and injuring two others. Two of those killed were said to be foreigners. In Dofes, to the west, there were additional reports of fighting between Yemeni troops and al Qaeda-linked militants.

Defected General Ali Mohsen al Ahmar claimed that a car bomb was found near the headquarters of the First Armored Division in Sana’a. The car, loaded with two gas cylinders and 100 kg (220 lb) of TNT, was rigged to detonate remotely. The statement reported that this was the fourth attempt to assassinate the general. Saturday, President Ali Abdullah Saleh reiterated his commitment to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) deal.

Yemeni security forces continue a violent crackdown on protesters in Taiz. Residents reported that Republican Guard troops attacked residential areas in Taiz, killing one person. Loyalist troops are also stationed along Jamal Street.

Sectarian violence continues in Dimaj in Sa’ada governorate. The fighting between al Houthis and Salafists killed one person.