According to the Wall Street Journal, Yemen’s most influential scholar, Sheik Abdul Majid Al Zindani, has warned his country against allowing foreign troops or an occupying force inside the country in an attempt to pursue suspected al Qaeda terrorists. Zindani however also encouraged his country to accept international aid in stabilizing the country.  Zidani said, “We accept any [international security] cooperation in a framework of mutual respect and common interest … But if someone occupies your country … a Muslim has a duty to defend” against such invaders.

The WSJ article also noted, not surprisingly, that “Mr. Zindani’s comments highlight a deep mistrust that Yemenis have toward the U.S. and its recent overseas actions. Many people here believe that U.S. troops, fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq, are waging a war against Muslims, not terrorists.”

While the comments do suggest a mistrust of the United States among Yemenis and many in the Middle East, they also highlight a need address the systemic, root causes of violence. Whether the causes are rooted in economic disparity, political strife, or fundamentalists twisting a religion to achieve their own misguided agenda are not exactly clear. What is clear however is that our initial reaction to call for direct or indirect military intervention may not always be the best solution. Such action could undoubtedly lead to further misunderstanding, miscommunication and a worsening of relations. More important to the long-term stability is the building of meaningful relationships built on trust and respect. As the article smartly points out, building those relationships with individuals such as Mr. Zindani, could go a long way in changing minds and stemming violence.

Do not confuse this as a free pass for Mr. Zindani as serious questions remain including whether or not he has supported or encouraged extremism and violence. Instead, we should use Mr. Zindani’s invitation as an example of a potential opportunity to increase dialogue between two groups that may not always see eye to eye.