Azhar grand imam urges Yemeni parties to close ranks

Grand Imam of Al Azhar Dr Ahmed el Tayyeb has urged conflicting parties in Yemen to return to the negotiating table and lay down their arms.

The Yemeni parties should show good intentions in order to avoid wars in their country, Tayyeb said in a statement Saturday.

Tayyeb, who also chairs the Muslim Wise Men Council, said the council is keen on boosting societal peace and protecting the Muslim nation against fighting.

The council supports any efforts aimed at ending the crisis in Yemen, the grand imam said, noting that this crisis is threatening Yemen's stability and unity.

Hopefully, UN efforts would help restore stability and security in Yemen, Tayyeb said.

Tayyeb also praised the role played by Saudi Arabia and the Arab coalition to restore legitimacy in Yemen.