The Yemen state continues to face a severe internal test despite the appointment of a new prime minister. While the Houthis have accepted the new premier, they have not withdrawn from key areas of the country. Indeed, these forces are still involved in an ongoing, weeks long battle in the country's centre, Al-Bayda governorate, with a coalition of Sunni tribes and Sunni militants. Fighting in Rada and villages near it have left hundreds dead on both sides and does not appear to have an end in sight. Fears of a sectarian war aside, the conflict will, at least, rage for a number of months yet. The risk of escalation, exists. Forces may increasingly dedicate more resources to the field and previously neutral players may seek to enter the fray.
