Yemen: U.S. Focus on Terrorism “Wrong Choice”

Writing for The National Interest, Christopher Boucek argues that Yemen must begin its political transition as soon as possible, in order to then focus on the problems underlying the current crisis, including poor governance, unemployment, lack of resources, and security issues. Boucek notes the U.S. preoccupation with the al-Qaeda threat, and argues that “an exclusive focus on terrorism is the wrong choice for Washington,” as it “will make matters worse.” Rather, Boucek recommends that the U.S. focus on improving the economic situation, and collaborate with Europe and Saudi Arabia to ensure that President Ali Abdullah Saleh does not return, his sons relinquish power, and Vice President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi is empowered to lead the transition. Boucek concludes, ”Washington must aim to address the systemic sources of instability in Yemen—and not simply terrorism and AQAP.”

Meanwhile, in an interview yesterday with CNN, opposition leader Gen. Ali Mohsen al-Ahmer rejected a new proposal that would allow Saleh to remain in power until a new leader is selected. Ahmer reiterated support for an immediate transition under the GCC plan, and called on the U.S., E.U., and GCC to increase pressure on Saleh to step down. He also praised Hadi, noting that “all sides agree on him and all respect him” to serve as interim leader. Ahmer conceded that Hadi “does not act with full authority,” but predicts that he will in the future.