Security Concerns Shut U.S., British Embassies

The United States and Britain closed their embassies in Yemen for security reasons after warning against travel to the country. U.S. spokesman John Balian did not give details.

The State Department said Friday that the threat to U.S. citizens “remains high due to terrorist activities” and authorized the voluntary departure of non-emergency personnel and eligible family members.

Britain warned its citizens to avoid travel to Sadah, 125 miles northwest of Sana, where clashes between Yemeni troops and supporters of a slain rebel Shiite Muslim cleric have killed at least 80 people since late March.