Important information from DCP member Phil Boyle: "This point is 26 km from the ancient, beautiful and historically important city of Ṣa`da, and just 2.2 km from an asphalt road heading east through Ṣa`da governorate. In terms of terrain, it is probably the easiest point to get to in Yemen. However, a vicious internal conflict is currently taking place between al-Ḥūthiyy rebels and government forces, which means the entire governorate is closed to all foreigners. The war is currently (May 2007) at its peak, with regular use of artillery, mortar, and air strikes, and the area should not be visited under any circumstances until peace breaks out. Even when the conflict does end, getting permission to visit this sensitive area may be nearly impossible for many years. The conflict aside, a radical Salafiyy institute is located near the CP and the government has arrested a number of westerners making their way there in recent years. Finally, there have been reports (as yet unsubstantiated) of anti-personnel mines being laid throughout the governorate during the Ḥūthiyy conflict, and local advice will need to be sought before attempting to go off road. This is not a point for the faint-hearted!" (added 04 May 2007 GK)