Yemen: Foreign military intervention unwelcome

Yemeni security forces have launched a manhunt for the suspected leader of an al-Qaida linked cell. The group is believed to be behind the threat that prompted the closure of the US and British embassies in Sanaa this week.

Meanwhile, the Yemeni government has expressed opposition against foreign military intervention in the fight against al-Qaida.

Security forces swept into several areas in the mountainous region of Ar-hab, northeast of the Yemeni capital. But they have not located Mohammed Ahmed al-Hanaq, the suspected cell leader.

On Tuesday, security forces arrested three fighters who were wounded in clashes, as they were being treated in a hospital. Four others were also arrested.

Meanwhile, Yemeni Foreign Minister Abu Bakr al-Qirbi says that military aid is a controversial issue.

Yemeni Foreign minister Abu Bakr al-Qirbi talks during an interview with the Associated Press at his office in San'a, Yemen, Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2010.(AP Photo/Nasser Nasser)