According to the Yemeni government, a military offensive against al Qaeda that began in April has so far killed 500 of the Islamic militants. In response, al Qaeda has increased attacks on government facilities since being driven out of their strongholds and fleeing to the desert and mountains. In addition to the 500 dead, 39 additional suspects are under arrest. The terrorist group has sought to undermine government work to stabilize the country since longtime ruler Ali Abdullah Saleh stepped down in 2012 amid protests.
