The Middle East Institute is proud to host two former Ambassadors to Yemen, Thomas Krajeski and David Newton, for a discussion about Yemen and the role of US foreign policy in a country some political analysts characterize as a failed state. As Yemen grapples with multiple crises, including the growing influence of Al Qaeda, a Houthi Rebellion in the north, a secessionist movement in the south and severe economic woes, what should the US do to help stabilize and secure one of the Arab world’s poorest countries?
Krajeski served in Yemen from 2004-2007 where he managed the full range of US-Yemen bilateral issues with special emphasis on counter-terrorism and development, while Newton served three tours in Yemen, including as Ambassador from 1994-1997. Both men share decades of expertise on Arab and Gulf affairs and bring to their analysis of Yemen’s problems invaluable regional insight and experience.