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Aden port open, UAE troops in control, ISIS/Al-Qaeda have city foothold

YEMEN's Port of Aden remained open and traffic levels were slowly increasing, reports MAST maritime security bulletin, adding that Houthi forces still hold the Yemeni capital of Sana'a.

But two assassination attempts - drive-by shootings - on prominent people have been reported in Aden, which has resulted in a ban on the use of all pillion (second seats and sidecars on motorcycles) vehicles within the area.

Forces of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) say they are in control of Aden city, but concede Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State forces have increased their influence through key areas of southern Yemen, notably in the area around Al Mukalha and Aden.

Said MAST operations chief Gerry Northwood: "The situation remains unstable and we believe closures may still occur at short notice. We understand fuel is in short supply and may lead to a demand discharging fuel to the port."

He also said that local sources have reported that Yemen may become two separate states, and that this will be a popular solution with the Yemenis around Aden.