Editor-in-chief of independent newspaper kidnapped and beaten by assailants for slandering government officials. Trial began of 36 suspected Zaidi rebels accused of attacks against security forces. In separate trial, 6 al Qaeda suspects jailed for plotting attacks on Western targets.

Violent nationwide protests over fuel prices and discontent with state leaders killed at least 36. Cabinet cut fuel prices in response. After 27 years in power, President Ali Abdullah Saleh announced would not seek re-election in 2006, calling for political change. Tribes in Hadramout province signed pact to end 70 years of conflict.

Minor clashes continued between rebels and government forces, despite May agreement by rebel leader to possible peace deal. Foreign Minister Abubakr Al-Qirbi claimed troops control rebel areas in north and called for surrender. Continued instability hampering humanitarian efforts in Saada province, where most fighting took place. MP from ruling party shot dead in Sanaa; political motivation not ruled out.

Violence continued between government forces and members of outlawed Believing Youth group, accused of attempting to overthrow regime: 21 rebels arrested for grenade attack on state forces and planning to assassinate political and military officials. President Ali Abdullah Saleh announced group leader agreed to renounce campaign in return for amnesty. Mass demonstrations in capital due to reports of American desecration of Koran in Guantanamo.

Authorities captured rebel strongholds in north after weeks of clashes with followers of radical Shiite cleric killed by security forces in 2004; at least 170 soldiers and militants reported dead. Aid agencies increasingly concerned about conflict’s effect on humanitarian situation. U.S. and UK embassies briefly closed due to security fears.

Some 65 killed in outbreak of violence in Saada province, northwest Yemen, between security forces and followers of Husain al-Huthi – radical Shia cleric who died leading 2004 revolt.

UK embassy closed briefly due to security concerns.

At least 25 killed in inter-tribal fighting Al-Jawf province eastern Yemen 2-3 December. One killed in further clash Zamar province southern Yemen 15 December.

After 3 months of fighting, government said its forces killed rebel Shiite cleric Hussein al-Houthi. Two men sentenced to death for orchestrating October 2000 bombing of U.S. destroyer Cole.

Government forces continued mountain offensive against radical Shiite cleric Hussein al-Houthi. Eleven Yemeni soldiers reportedly killed in rebel ambush 24 August.