WASHINGTON: The Obama administration is on guard against an Al Qaeda build-up in Yemen and Somalia as it expects the militants to seek refuge there as they are targeted in Afghanistan and Pakistan. “The struggle against violent extremism will not be finished quickly, and it extends well beyond Afghanistan and Pakistan,” President Barack Obama warned on Tuesday as he unveiled his revamped strategy for central Asia. “Where Al Qaeda and its allies attempt to establish a foothold – whether in Somalia or Yemen or elsewhere – they must be confronted by growing pressure and strong partnerships.” Obama did not say his Afghanistan troop surge and planned strategic partnership with Pakistan would cause Al Qaeda to seek more secure hideouts in Yemen and Somalia, but his national security adviser did make the link. “Our best information is that Al Qaeda is feeling increasingly uncomfortable in Pakistan,” General James Jones said on Wednesday after Obama’s speech. afp