Developments in Yemen

Developments in Yemen

Press Statement
Jen Psaki
Department Spokesperson
Washington, DC
January 22, 2015

The United States is troubled by reports of President Hadi and his cabinet’s resignation. At this time, it is critical that all sides avoid violence.

The safety and security of U.S. personnel is our top priority in Yemen. We are evaluating the security situation on the ground on an ongoing basis. We call on all parties to abide by their public commitments to ensure the security of the diplomatic community, including our personnel.

In 2011, the Yemeni people went bravely to Change Square and peacefully sought a political transition. Since then they held an election, convened an inclusive National Dialogue Conference and patiently awaited the results of a Constitutional Drafting Committee.

The people of Yemen deserve a clear path back to a legitimate, federal, and unitary Yemeni government, consistent with the Gulf Cooperation Council Initiative, the outcomes of the National Dialogue Conference, UN Security Council resolutions and Yemeni law, with clearly defined timelines to finish writing a new Yemeni constitution, to hold a referendum on this constitution, and to launch national elections.

The future of Yemen should be determined by the Yemeni people in accordance with Yemen’s constitution and the National Dialogue Conference outcomes. All Yemenis have both a right and responsibility to peacefully participate in this process. The United States remains firmly committed to supporting all Yemenis in this endeavor.

ENDS

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