Two French hostages in Yemen freed

Security sources in the Yemeni government said that a French diplomat and his wife, who were abducted by Yemeni tribes more than 10 days ago, were released on Thursday.

The French Foreign Ministry's deputy spokesperson confirmed yesterday that the two French citizens had been released, thanking those who worked for their release.

Sources said the two hostages were handed over to the security men to accompany them on their way to Sanaa.

Sources added that the health of the two hostages is good.

The Yemeni independent newspaper El-Balagh said earlier this week that the two hostages threatened to start a hunger strike in protest over their detention.

More than 100 Westerners have been abducted in Yemen within the last six years, most of whom were released without being hurt.