James Spencer is a retired infantry commander who specialised in low intensity conflict. He is a strategic analyst on the political, security and trade issues of the Middle East and North Africa.
President Saleh's response to the protests has increased in violence, causing him some major defections, yet he has clung to power. International supporters are concerned that an end to Saleh’s era may result in chaos, possibly allowing al-Qa’ida room, however the tribes of Yemen are likely to pre