Ongoing Situation in Yemen

Philip J. Crowley

Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Public Affairs

Washington, DC

March 13, 2011

The United States is deeply concerned by continuing reports of deaths and injuries at demonstrations throughout Yemen in the past week. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives. People everywhere share the same universal rights to demonstrate peacefully and to freely assemble and express themselves. Violence must cease immediately. We call on the Yemeni government to quickly investigate these incidents and take all necessary steps to protect the rights of all its citizens in accordance with President Saleh’s commitments.

The current political impasse will be solved only when all parties engage in a process of peaceful negotiation and dialogue. We reiterate our call for a commitment by all sides to participate in an open and transparent process that addresses the legitimate concerns of all Yemeni people and provides an orderly path to a nation that is more responsive to the political and economic aspirations of the people. We believe this is the best approach to advance the interests of the Yemeni people.