Washington: The US has ordered all its non-essential diplomats and family members of embassy staff to leave Yemen as fighting there escalates. At least 44 people have been killed since Monday in clashes between tribal fighters and government troops.President Ali Abdullah Saleh has again said he will not step down and leave Yemen, despite mounting protests.
He has so far refused to sign a transition deal that would see him resign in favour of a unity government.
The US State Department has also warned Americans against travelling to Yemen.
“The security threat level in Yemen is extremely high due to terrorist activities and civil unrest. There is ongoing civil unrest throughout the country and large-scale protests in major cities,” the State Department said.
“The Department of State has ordered all eligible family members of US government employees as well as certain non-emergency personnel to depart Yemen,” the travel warning said.
“US citizens currently in Yemen should depart while commercial transportation is available,” it said.
Fighters from a powerful tribal group, the Hashid, have reportedly taken control of several public buildings in the capital Sanaa after several days of fighting government troops.
Sanaa’s airport is reportedly shut after tribal fighters opposed to President Saleh clashed with government forces.
Witnesses say hundreds of people are fleeing the violence in the capital.
The clashes began on Monday after forces loyal to President Saleh moved against the compound of Hashid leader Sheikh Sadeq al-Ahmar.
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