Yemen leader asks UN to back intervention
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Yemen’s president has asked the UN Security Council to back military action in support of his government to oust Houthi rebels who control much of the disintegrating country’s north and are advancing south

YEMENI GOVERNMENT

Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi Elected interim president in 2012 to lead transition to democracy. Resigned in Jan 2015 following Houthi takeover of capital, Sanaa

Escaped house arrest in February to form government in Aden, calling on army to join him

AL QAEDA (AQAP)

Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula –militant group’s most active branch – maintains domestic insurgency whilekeeping sights on Western targets

HOUTHIS (ANSARULLAH)

Group established in 1992 to back rights of minority Zaidi Shia people. Began northern revolt in 2004, have since taken control of 12 of country’s21 governorates. Allied with Iran 

Ali Abdullah Saleh

Ex-president still influential despitebeing forced to step down in 2012.Accused by West of using alliance with Houthis in attempt to regain power

SOUTHERN AL HIRAK MOVEMENT

Secessionist group wants to reverse 1990 unification and revive South Yemen. Enjoys strong support in Aden but lacks coherent leadership
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Saudi forces: Massing on border, could be preparing to intervene

Sadah

Red Sea

Hodeida

Taizz

ERITREA

DJIBOUTI

Sanaa

Al Anad airbase: Houthi control

Al Hazm 

Marib

Ataq

Al Bayda

Aden: Rebels advancing on Hadi stronghold

Al Mukalla

YEMEN

SAUDI ARABIA

OMAN

Al Ghaydah

Gulf of Aden

SOMALIA

Socotra

160km 100 miles
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Source: Wire agencies

Pictures: Associated Press, Getty Images

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