Most readers of this will be aware that we have had to withdraw our Embassy staff from Sanaa until after the Eid, because of security concerns which are now very much in the public eye. For me it is a genuine matter of regret, having spent my first weeks in Yemen enjoying true Yemeni friendship and hospitality during the holy month of Ramadan. I was very much hoping to enjoy the atmosphere of celebration over the Eid al-Fitr as Yemenis end their fasting month, which has fallen at the hottest time of the year. I am particularly aware of the fortitude of Yemenis in the coastal cities of Yemen – such as Mukalla, Aden and al-Hodeidah – for whom this summer Ramadan has been particularly arduous.
I am grateful for all that our Yemeni hosts have done to ensure the safety and security of our Embassy and its staff, as well as to increase security measures around Sanaa and further afield. It has caused inconvenience to people making their final preparations for Eid. But while it has also made people anxious at what should be a time of happiness, it is also a reminder to us, Yemen’s friends, that Yemen is still in need of the support of its friends to help build political and economic security at a critical point in its political transition.
I pray that all will be peaceful during and after Eid and look forward to returning very soon.
And finally, may I wish you all عيد مبارك , وكل عام وأنتم بخير