The United Nations Security Council is calling for a lasting cease-fire in Yemen and condemning the recent surge in violence aimed at undermining its legitimate government institutions. In a press statement approved by all 15 members on Tuesday, the council “underlined” that President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi “is the legitimate authority.” Violence has gripped Yemen’s capital, Sanaa, since Monday and has been described as a coup. Yemeni authorities say Shiite Houthi rebels shelled Hadi’s residence and raided the presidential palace on Tuesday. The Security Council said all parties must stand with Hadi and his Cabinet “to keep the country on track to stability and security.” It welcomed the completion of a draft constitution, looked forward to public consultations and called for all parties to rapidly engage in finalizing the document. AP