EU calls for halt to violence in Yemen

European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton called on Tuesday for a halt to violence in Yemen and urged the president to accept a power transfer after dozens were killed in anti-regime protests. Ashton "deplores the many deaths and injuries following the demonstrations in Sanaa on 18-19 September," her spokesman said in a statement, adding that perpetrators of violence should be held accountable. "In this volatile situation, it is crucial to exercise restraint, avoid provocative action, refrain from further violence and take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation," the statement said. The Yemeni capital Sanaa was rocked by gunfire and shelling early Tuesday in a third consecutive day of violence after. "The latest events yet again underscore the need for a rapid political solution to meet the aspirations of the Yemeni people," Ashton''s spokesman said. "The EU reiterates the need to sign and implement the Gulf Cooperation Council initiative and stands ready to extend support to Yemeni stakeholders, the GCC and our international partners,'''' the spokesman said.