Terrorism in Yemen

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In The Media

Terrorism in Yemen

The Saudi and Yemeni affiliates of al-Qaeda have merged into a single regional group and undertaken a series of attacks on U.S. interests from Yemen, taking advantage of the increasing instability of the Yemeni government and making the situation in Yemen a much higher priority for U.S. policy makers than it was a few months ago.

By Christopher Boucek

Published on Dec 28, 2009

Source: KCBS News Interviews and Analysis

Al-Qaeda’s Saudi Arabian and Yemeni affiliates have merged into a regional al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, and Saudi militants are fleeing to Yemen, where national instability and large amounts of ungoverned territory create a space for extremists to train. Carnegie's Christopher Boucek discusses the distinct tribal culture of Yemen, and its links with the Horn of Africa. Caught in a perfect storm of economic, political, social, and environmental challenges, the Yemeni government may not have the ability to overcome its numerous problems. The United States needs to find a way to help the Yemeni government end its war in Sa'da so that it can focus its attention on fighting Al-Qaeda.

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
- Christopher Boucek
Q&A
Rivals—Iran vs. Saudi Arabia
- Christopher Boucek, Karim Sadjadpour

Security Middle East Yemen

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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Terrorism in Yemen

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Most of Moscow’s military resources are tied up in Ukraine, while Beijing’s foreign policy prioritizes economic ties and avoids direct conflict.

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