Foreign Office pulls out non-essential embassy staff from Yemen
Given the situation on the ground, it will be very difficult for the British Government to provide consular assistance in the event of a further breakdown of law and order and increased violent civil disorder.
In light of the rapid deterioration in the security situation in Yemen and the high risk of increased tension in Sana’a and likely protests on Friday 25 March which might result in violent clashes, part of the British Embassy team in Sana’a is being temporarily withdrawn, leaving a small core staff in place. This will take immediate effect.
We continue to advise against all travel to Yemen and strongly urge British nationals to leave now by commercial means. Given the situation on the ground, it will be very difficult for the British Government to provide consular assistance in the event of a further breakdown of law and order and increased violent civil disorder.
We urge all parties in Yemen to exercise the utmost restraint and take all steps necessary to defuse this situation. It is crucial that all Yemenis play a responsible role in bringing about political and economic reforms that respond to the legitimate demands of the Yemeni people and build a peaceful and secure future for the country. The UK will remain a friend to the people of Yemen and will support economic, social and political change.