Yemen: Radical Islamists fight for territory in the south

   A long article in the Washington Post discusses the situation in parts of South Yemen where Islamic militants have taken over considerable territory. Islamic militants have taken advantage of the protests and opposition to the regime of president Saleh. Although Saleh relinquished power recently to his vice-president, he is still in Yemen and through his family and loyalists still exerts influence upon affairs.
   The U.S. has strongly supported Saleh's move against Islamic militants. However, the U.S. also supported the GCC deal which Saleh signed in which he relinquished the presidency in return for immunity from prosecution for himself, family, and cronies. Protesters are much opposed to granting Saleh and his cronies immunity from prosecution.
   Radical Islamist groups have established their presence in Abyan province especially Zinjibar the regional capital. The goal of the groups is to create as Islamic emirate in Yemen. One military base remains in the city and there are constant attacks on the rebels.
   In the north there are also Shiite Houthi rebels. The groups in effect have taken control of several provinces. There are also separatists in the south not associated with Islamists. Finally there are disgruntled tribal leaders with their own militias and military units who have defected even in the capital. Yemen appears far from unity and Saleh and his family power are making the situation much worse. For much more see this article.