Yemen is at a dangerous juncture. The steps now taken by its leaders will determine the country's future. And it is up to the various parties to decide whether it will be a future of reconciliation or that of conflict.
With the return of President Ali Abdullah Saleh, the streets of Yemen have witnessed some of the most violent days yet. The Yemeni army has used live rounds in its attempt to disperse protesters.
Dozens of protesters have been killed and injured during the clashes. The situation in Yemen is alarming as both sides are helping maintain the status quo that has paralysed the country for months.

There are direct and clear means to bring a conflict to an end. Both the government and the opposition have to come to the realisation that reconciliation is crucial and that it is the only way to stop the clashes.

The Yemeni president has said that he is willing to revive the peace plan proposed by the Gulf Cooperation Council.
But this time around, it is important that all parties concerned recognise that Yemen cannot afford a continuation of uncertainty and instability.