Emboldened al-Qaeda Branch Exploits Security Vacuum in Southern Yemen

Kelly Maggio / July 11, 2011

President Ali Abdullah Saleh, although badly wounded, plans to return to Yemen on July 17 to celebrate the 33rd anniversary of his ascent to power.

The United States has contributed to the international pressure for Saleh to agree to a peaceful and speedy transition of power in Yemen, but the political process has stalled due to his refusal to compromise and prolonged absence after being wounded in an assassination attempt. (more…)