Tribal sources confirmed that on Saturday, Sheikh Hamid al-Ahmar from the powerful clan of the Hashid, whose elder brother, Sheikh Sadiq al-Ahmar rules over, called for a grand tribal meeting following a violent altercation with Sheikh Noman Doaid’s loyalists at a wedding this last Thursday, as to decide on a course of action.
The wedding party was held in honour of Amran director of security, Brigadier General Mohammed Saleh Tooraik’ son.
As both opposing tribes came face to face on Thursday, insults are said to have been exchanged in between Sheikh Hamid’s guards and that of Sheikh Doaid, eventually leading to gunshots to be fired. The quarrel turned extremely violent when other tribesmen, believing their Sheikh to have become a target, immediately retaliated. Within a few minutes the once joyous wedding hall turned into a battle ground, with guests rushing to all exits. It is important to note that several high ranking state officials and other dignitaries were present when the gun battle broke out, raising some serious security questions.
While tribal violence has long been a reality Yemenis have had to live with decades, this latest outbreak, at the very hear t of the capital, at a wedding hosting state dignitaries somewhat laid bare the extent of Yemen’ security problem.
It is important to note that Sheik Doaid’s tribe from al-Kawlan has a long-standing feud with house al-Ahmar. It is likely this new spat, should it not be contained, would only come to poison further already tense tribal relations.
However, sources close to the matter have confirmed that tribal leaders present at Saturday meeting have called for an end of all hostility, favouring a pardon and a mutual apology over an armed retaliation.
As it happens this particular feud seems to have been contained.