Context
Brutal crackdown against pro-democracy protesters in Syria has put Iran in a difficult position. The Islamic republic had supported the protesters that overthrew the leaders of Tunisia and Egypt. However, in the case of Damascus, its closest ally in the Arab World, Tehran has been accused of helping President Assad in his efforts to intimidate his rivals with the use of force. On Saturday, Iran dismissed President Obama’s allegations that Assad is “seeking Iranian assistance in repressing Syria’s citizens”. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ramin Mehmanparast said that it has been Iran’s policy not to intervene in the internal matters of other countries. However, more important than Mehmanparast’s reply to Obama was his criticism of Assad without taking Syria’ name. “We consider as unacceptable the use of violence against the people of any country,” he said. This is the first time Iran has criticized the Syrian leadership since protests erupted a month ago.

The post Brutal Syrian Crackdown on Demonstrators Puts Iran in a Difficult Position appeared first on Politact.

Context
President Ali Abdullah Saleh of Yemen has sacked the country’s cabinet amid ongoing demonstrations against his government. The decision came as thousands of people attended the funerals for dozens of demonstrators killed on Friday. Despite sacking his government, President Saleh wants the cabinet to continue working until a new one is appointed. The president has been facing a series of resignations since 45 people were shot dead by authorities during Friday’s anti-government demonstrations, sparking widespread fury in Yemen. A number of top Yemeni military commanders defected today and joined the protestors. A number of Yemeni ambassadors have also resigned their posts. It should be mentioned that Al Qaeda is particularly active in Yemen and is likely to directly benefit from chaos there, while creating serious implications for the security of Saudi Arabia .

The post Yemeni President Sacks Government appeared first on Politact.