Yemen: Almost 1500 killed since protests began

Deputy Information Minister Abdu al-Janadi told reporters that the toll of civilians, military and security personnel was 1480. This covers the period when protests began in Feb. until Sept. 25. This is first estimate of casualties that the government has released.

Over the weekend three soldiers were killed in an operation against Islamic militants in the city of Zinjibar. Recently a mistaken bombing also killed about 30 troops in the area--although there are conflicting reports on this event.

Just recently Anwar al-Awlaki was killed in a U.S. stirike in eastern Yemen. Radical Islamic groups have been extending their influence in some areas during the civil unrest. The central government has lost control in a number of areas.

Protests are still ongoing with thousands taking to the streets of the capital Sanaa. Pro-democracy demonstrators want President Saleh to resign and to be brought to justice as well for corruption and killing demonstrators. Even since Sept. 18 over 100 have been killed in clashed between Saleh forces and their opponents.

There seems no resolution in sight although Saleh is supposed to be negotiating his stepping down from power. Several times before he has reneged on deals at the last moment. The deal would not bring Saleh to justice in any event so pro-democracy youth protesters would not support it. With U.S. support the GCC negotiated a deal for Saleh to step down but it has yet to be completed and signed by Saleh.