US strikes have killed 25 al-Qaeda suspects in 5 days One Yemeni soldier has been killed, and three others injured, in an explosion that targeted a high-ranking police official in Beyidah province on Wednesday. Al-Qaeda is believed to be responsible for the attack.Local sources confirmed to Arabstoday that the soldier died after a car bomb planted on a police car exploded.
The bombing reportedly targeted Colonel Khaled al-Dalei, a police chief in Beyidah, but the Colonel was not in the car during the blast. His son was one of the wounded men.
The area has witnessed intense fighting between government forces and al-Qaeda elements in recent weeks, with US drone strikes killing 15 suspected militants in the Almnash area.
Yemen’s army, backed by special forces, is currently preparing for an extensive military campaign in the region, targeting al-Qaeda elements currently in tribal areas close to Radaa City.
Tribal leaders tried to stop the military campaign and instead mediate with al-Qaeda, in an attempt to reduce civilian casualties.
Despite protestations the campaign is set to continue, with tribal leaders supporting forces expected to target Almnash and Hemet Serar.
US air strikes on Marib and Jawf have intensified across Yemen over the past five days, killing some 25 suspected al-Qaeda elements.
Security sources meanwhile confirmed to Arabstoday and six men were arrested in different parts of Aden, the largest city in southern Yemen, for possession of bomb belts. Among the detainees was Ahmed Blaidy, brother of a infamous al-Qaeda fighter in Abyan province.
Security measures have also been intensified in the capital, Sanaa, ahead of an emergency UN Security Council conference looking to reach a comprehensive political settlement in Yemen.
President Hadi met with UN officials on Wednesday to discuss the transfer of power in the country, in the run-up to parliamentary elections.