Leader in al-Qaeda killed in Marib

MARIB, April 18 (YPA) – A leader in al-Qaeda terrorist origination was killed on Sunday, in clashes around the northeastern Yemeni city of Marib.

This was reported by Yemen News Portal, based on tribal sources .

Tribal sources said that the leader Salem Saleh Balqfal was killed along with dozens of members of the organization while leading groups to attack a position of the Yemeni  forces in Al-Mashjaha , pointing out that among the dead were elements of foreign nationality.

In recent months, the group has lost several field commanders in the Marib battles.

Al-Qaeda’s presence in Marib has been an international concern that the group could take control of the oil province or grant it a concession by regional and international parties that see it as its savior in its fight against what it describes as the “Houthis.”

Earlier this week, India’s security council representative called for a focus on al-Qaeda activity in Marib.

E.M