John Brennan, the President's adviser on homeland security and counterterrorism, discussed U.S. policy toward Yemen, the status of Yemen's political transition and economic recovery program, and the humanitarian and security situation throughout the country.
He made remarks and answered questions at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington, D.C.
PBS NewsHour Senior Correspondent Margaret Warner moderated the discussion.
Brennan has said previously that the Yemen-based al-Qaida franchise in the Arabian Peninsula is most operational and has originated several terrorist plots, including the underwear bomb.
Drone attacks have increased in Yemen and the U.S. provides logistical support to the Yemeni military, according to reports.