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In Yemen, Signs of De-escalation in Fighting

Margaret Besheer

   UNITED NATIONS - The U.N. envoy for Yemen said Friday that there has
   been a substantial decrease in violence in key areas of the war-wracked
   country.

   "In the last two weeks, the rate has dramatically reduced: There were
   reportedly almost 80% fewer airstrikes nationwide than in the two weeks
   prior," U.N. Special Envoy Martin Griffiths told a meeting of the U.N.
   Security Council. "In recent weeks, there have been entire 48-hour
   periods without airstrikes for the first time since the conflict
   began."

   Griffiths said the number of security incidents in the vital port city
   of Hodeidahhave dropped by 40%, and since five joint observation posts
   were created along front lines, incidents are down 80%.

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