France again reinforces security measures for embassy in Yemen

France decided on Wednesday to further reinforce security measures at its embassy in the Yemeni capital, Sana'a, because of what is said is an ongoing threat against missions and personnel from Western countries. Last week, the French government decided to close its embassy until Thursday, August 8, but this temporary closure has now been extended under instructions from Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius. "Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius has reviewed the situation in Yemen, in liaison with our principal partners, and has taken (a number of) decisions," the French Foreign Ministry said in a briefing. The French embassy in Sana'a will remain closed until at least Sunday, August 11, inclusive. This will bring to ten days the period of closure so far. France also intends to limit its diplomatic presence in Yemen to essential staff and will only leave "the strict minimum of diplomatic personnel" in the country, statements here indicated. Yemen has expressed regret at the withdrawal of foreign diplomats from Sana'a. Paris is also issuing advisories to its 600 nationals registered in Yemen, urging reinforced vigilance and maximum restriction on movements of French people in the country. The French moves are similar to measures taken by several other Western nations, including the United States which is boosting security precautions in many embassies in the region for fear of an Al-Qaeda attack. Germany, Holland, Britain and other European nations are also heightening security precautions amid concern at what France says is "direct and indirect information" received about potential attacks from Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula.