Yemen's only gas export terminal is still being controlled by

operators Yemen LNG, said French energy company Total on Tuesday, after reports it

had been seized by armed tribesmen.

"Yemen LNG informs us that no intrusion has been made through the perimeter of the

factory. The security of the site has been maintained," said a spokesman for Total,

which holds a 40 percent stake in Yemen LNG, apparently contradicting claims by a

local military source who said soldiers protecting the site had abandoned their

positions.