Mullen applauds strikes against al-Qaida; expresses concerns about Yemen becoming ’safe haven’

Mullen worried Yemen becoming terrorist ‘haven’

ABOARD A U.S. MILITARY AIRCRAFT — Adm. Mike Mullen is applauding a military strike in Yemen against suspected members of the al-Qaida terrorist group.

The top U.S. military officer said Sunday he has been concerned for some time that Yemen could become “another safe haven” for terrorism. He applauded the effort to go after an al-Qaida cell which he said has grown significantly over the last couple of years.

Mullen said the United States will continue to help Yemen develop its ability to fight terrorism, but he refused to discuss whether the United States played an active role in the recent operation.

The New York Times reported the U.S. provided firepower and other aid to Yemen for the strike this past week against suspected al-Qaida hide-outs and training sites within its borders.