The resumption of clashes between Yemeni government troops and rebels is regretful as it will heighten the level of violence and instability. The fighting between the two sides has resumed following a bomb attack outside a mosque which killed at least 18 worshippers and wounded dozen more.

The government has accused rebels of the Al Houthi movement of bombing the Shiite mosque, which the group has denied. Also, some foreign visitors recently came under attack.

But beyond the finger pointing and counter accusations, the recent escalation is unwelcome as matters could become worse and spiral out of control. The problem between the Yemeni government and the rebels reached a costly standoff about a year ago but was eventually resolved through mediation.

This time around, it is also critical that talks and negotiations are the means utilised to reach a final settlement between the government and the rebels.