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Minister for the Middle East Alistair Burt condemns upsurge in Yemen violence

Foreign Office Minister Alistair Burt has issued a statement following the attacks over the last few days in Ta’iz.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Foreign Office Minister Alistair Burt said:

“The UK condemns the killing of unarmed civilians, including women and children, over the last few days in Ta’iz. The situation there is of increasing humanitarian concern, as people’s lives are threatened and disrupted and heavy weaponry used. All sides should cease the violence without delay. The Government of Yemen should ensure those responsible, including in the Government forces, for the killing of civilians face justice and focus on protecting the security of its citizens, including respecting their right to peaceful protest.

“The UK notes with concern the Yemeni vote in the Arab League on the Syria resolution on Saturday, which can only add to the doubts about the Government of Yemen’s attitude to the use of excessive force against peaceful protesters and its commitment to protecting its own people.”

Published 14 November 2011