Yemeni women brutalized during celebration

Security forces in Yemen have brutalized female protesters after they took to the streets in support of Tawakkol Karman, the first Arab woman to win a Nobel Peace Prize.

SANNA, YEMEN (Catholic Online) - Last week, Tawakkol Karman, a Yemeni journalist and activist was awarded a Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts during the Arab spring uprisings, particularly in Yemen, were she is known as the Mother of the Revolution.

As the news of her prize was announced, women began to take to the streets in celebration. At least three large marches were held in different provinces throughout Yemen. The largest took place in Sanaa, the country's capital.

The celebrations turned into protests as greater numbers of women came out. In addition to praising Tawakkol Karman, the women also criticized the government. Some demonstrators publicly called for the United Nations to impose sanctions against president, Ali Abdullah Saleh and his family.

As these demonstrations began to grow, eyewitnesses allege that government security forces emerged and began to attack the women. Dozens of women were injured in the subsequent violence in spite of the fact they were completely unarmed and peaceful. At least 38 women have been confirmed hurt and admitted to hospitals. Doctors say they were attacked mostly with rocks and batons.

Yemenis are saying that the government's goal is to make people afraid to protest.

Three days ago, President Saleh announced that he would step down "within days," but few in Yemen believe him. Even if he should step down however, it does not mean that the much hoped-for reforms will occur, and many expect that protests and violence will probably continue for some time to come.

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