Gen. David Petraeus' recent announcement that the United States would be doubling counterterrorism support to Yemen is a good start to dealing with an increasing threat from the tip of the Arabian Peninsula.
He noted that America will increase its support to the nation that has become the latest al-Qaida hotbed. While $130 million a year is a lot of money, it’s a good investment, and this is the time to beef up funding.
Among the lessons learned from Iraq and Afghanistan that must be applied: The United States is better off if able to work with domestic government and law enforcement in bringing about stability.
Yemeni forces have recently been very active in pursuing al-Qaida cells and members, killing two and arresting three members this week, and reportedly closing in on Nazeeh al-Hanaq, among that nation’s most notorious men.
As Yemen relies on oil revenues — and its reserves are expected to dwindle to almost nothing in the coming decade — it's clear the nation needs help, and now.
To read the complete editorial, visit The Kansas City Star.
Comments