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Source: Getty

In The Media

US, Yemen, Not on Same Page

Given the multi-faceted challenges facing Yemen, resources for fighting al-Qaeda are scarce. The international community must assist Yemen not only in short term counterterrorism initiatives, but also in crucial long term development assistance.

Link Copied
By Christopher Boucek
Published on Jan 9, 2010

Source: CBS News

The failed Christmas day attack has brought increasing tension to Yemen. While the United States and the international community are focusing on the threat from al-Qaeda in the Arab Peninsula, the Yemeni military is facing a secessionist movement in the south and battling Houthi rebels in the north. In some sense, the Yemeni government and the United States have divergent goals, because, “as long as the Yemeni military is engaged in fighting a civil war, they aren’t engaged in fighting al-Qaeda,” notes Christopher Boucek. Ultimately, the United States and Yemen must work together “to address long term issues like education and the  economy,” and not just short term counterterrorism activities, to ensure Yemen’s security and stability. 

About the Author

Christopher Boucek

Former Associate, Middle East Program

Boucek was an associate in the Carnegie Middle East Program where his research focused on security challenges in the Arabian Peninsula and Northern Africa.

    Recent Work

  • Q&A
    Yemen After Saleh’s Return and Awlaki’s Exit

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  • Q&A
    Rivals—Iran vs. Saudi Arabia

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Christopher Boucek
Former Associate, Middle East Program
Christopher Boucek
SecurityForeign PolicyMiddle EastYemen

Carnegie does not take institutional positions on public policy issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of Carnegie, its staff, or its trustees.

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