US boots on the ground in Yemen

The Washington Post reports that a “contingent” of US troops are on the ground in Yemen with coalition troops prepared to assault an al-Qaeda base. US Marines are off the coast preparing to assist in operations should the need arise;

Since Feb. 28, the United States has conducted roughly 80 airstrikes against al-Qaeda militants in Yemen, Davis said, a number that remains little changed in past weeks. U.S. Special Operations forces have also been involved in a limited number of ground operations in the country, including one that ended in the death of a Navy SEAL in January.

Aside from intelligence sharing, [Pentagon spokesman Capt. Jeff] Davis said, the United States is providing midair refueling and overhead reconnaissance for forces involved in the operation. The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, a collection of U.S. Navy ships loaded with Marines, is in the region and is probably assisting the operation with aircraft and personnel. In the past, amphibious groups much like the Bataan’s have been integral in supporting U.S.-led operations against al-Qaeda in Yemen.

While the US is concentrating on the al Qaeda militants, the Saudi government is going after the Shi’te Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.

Thanks to Chief Tango for the link.