Yemeni Houthis accept five day humanitarian ceasefire

Iranian-backed Houthi rebel fighters in Yemen Sunday accepted a five-day “humanitarian ceasefire” proposed by Saudi Arabia, but warned they would respond to any violations. The ceasefire is scheduled to begin Tuesday.

Houthis also asked for political dialogue for resolving the conflict to resume under the auspices of the United Nations. The Houthis' acceptance of a truce follows intensified coalition bombing of Houthi strongholds in Yemen's north since Friday night, when Riyadh called on civilians to evacuate the province of Saada, a northern city where support for Houthi rebels is strongest.  Three coalition air strikes at dawn on Sunday targeted the residence in the capital of ex-president Ali Saleh, who has thrown his support behind the rebels. He was not at home.