06 Nov 2017 | 02:32 PM UTC
Yemen: Deadly hostage-taking suicide attack in Aden ends Nov. 6 /update 1
Security forces end day-long hostage-taking suicide attack claimed by the Islamic State in Aden November 6; at least 35 killed
Event
On Monday, November 6, Yemeni security forces ended a day-long suicide bombing and hostage-taking attack that left 29 soldiers and six civilians dead in Aden. According to reports, militants stormed the criminal investigation department's building in the central district of Khor Maksar, detonated suicide bomb explosives, and set the building on fire - taking an unspecified number of hostages. Police forces reportedly attempted multiple times to retake control of the building, but were stopped by suicide bombers each time. Finally, after four attempts to enter the building and four additional suicide bombers detonating their explosives, the police were able to put an end to the attack.
The Islamic State (IS) claimed responsibility for the attack.
Context
Terrorist groups such as IS and Al-Qa'ida have been able to capitalize on the instability in Yemen since 2015 to bolster their presence in the country, especially in the south. Yemen has been engaged in a complex and deadly conflict since Houthi rebels started fighting the international coalition-backed government in 2015. In total, approximately 10,000 Yemenis have died in the fighting and over 3 million have been displaced. The war has also sparked a cholera outbreak, which has affected over 755,000 people to date.
On Monday, November 6, the Saud-led coalition announced a temporary closure of all land borders, sea ports, and airports in Yemen. This decision comes two days after a ballistic missile was intercepted in the Saudi capital Riyadh. The Saudi-led coalition blamed Houthi rebels for launching the missile at the airport, and accused Iran of supporting them. The closures are reportedly aimed to curb the flow of arms from Iran to the rebels.
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.
