U.S. Embassy Sana'a on Authorized Departure

Following the September 17 terrorist attack on the U.S. Embassy in Sana'a, the Department of State has authorized the departure of non-essential American personnel and dependents for a period of 30 days, which may be extended, depending on circumstances. I've lost count how many times this post has been on authorized departure in the last few years alone. U.S. Embassy employees have also been advised to exercise caution when choosing restaurants, hotels or visiting tourist areas in Sana'a in order to avoid large gatherings of foreigners and expatriates. In addition, unofficial travel outside of the capital city has been curtailed at this time.

Below is a brief clip on the aftermath of the terrorist attack.

Today, three days later, another bombing, this time in Islamabad. Here are two links to the attack that is still breaking news. Police say a suicide bomber has driven an explosives-laden vehicle into Islamabad's Marriott Hotel. At least 40 people are reported to have been killed and 100 more wounded, as the hotel was packed for breaking fast during Ramadan. One of the reports indicated that some State Department people who were having dinner at the hotel were wounded but no names were provided. AlJazeera in YouTube AP CNN in YouTube