Les Campbell, NDI director for Middle East programs, offers his expertise and analysis of the rapidly changing situation in Yemen.

• On June 2, Campbell spoke with Renee Montagne of NPR's Morning Edition about the political and security situation in Yemen. He stressed the different sides must work toward a political solution rather than a military one, to avoid a failed state. "The only way to rule Yemen is to find a way to draw these disparate pieces into one body, probably a parliament," he said. Listen»
• As Yemeni forces protected President Ali Abdullah Saleh's beleaguered regime, U.S. special military operations have suffered. As result, al-Qaeda has had more opportunities to recruit and plot attacks. Campbell provides analysis of al-Qaeda's activities in Yemen in this June 3 story in the Los Angeles Times. Read»
• With President Saleh recovering in a Saudi hospital, Yemen faces a power vacuum that could be exploited by al-Qaeda. However, in this June 5 interview on NPR's All Things Considered, Campbell said there are many potential leaders and a vibrant and cohesive opposition that could take over from Saleh if given the chance. Listen»

Read more about NDI's activities in Yemen:

• Yemeni youth break new ground in resolving tribal conflict»
• Yemen program aims to end violence, promote safe schools»
• Overview of activities in Yemen»

Published June 9, 2011