Yemen: Formal roles for Ali Mohsin

Speculation was well-founded that wily operator Major General Ali Mohsin Al-Ahmar has been playing a growing role in the ‘Resistance’ movement countering the Houthis and Ali Abdullah Saleh – his erstwhile ally. Ali Mohsin’s late February appointment by President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi as armed forces deputy chief of staff confirmed his major role in the Arab Coalition, and led some observers to declare that Saudi Arabia (another old friend) and allies were preparing for a final push on Sanaa. Then, following setbacks for pro-Hadi forces in Mareb and eastern Sanaa province (notably in Nahem district), he was appointed vice president by Republican Decree No 49, issued on 4 April, sending shockwaves through the pro-coalition camp.