Quagmire in Yemen

The Saudis and the Houthis are not talking. Peace talks to end the conflict in Yemen were set to begin on Monday in Kuwait, but Houthi delegates say they will not attend until the Saudis, who support Yemen’s internationally recognized government, stop breaking a UN-backed ceasefire that began at midnight on April 10. “This alleged ceasefire did not hold even for seconds,” according to Yemeni journalist and Cipher Brief expert Nasser Arrabyee.

The day after the ceasefire announcement, Yemeni authorities reported 117 violations by rebel forces. On April 13, clashes between pro-government fighters and rebels near Yemen’s capital Sana’a left at least three dead and several wounded. On Monday, both sides reported additional violations, including fighting east of Sana’a in Marib province.