Ali Abdullah Saleh was a prominent Yemeni political figure who served as the President of Yemen for several decades. He played a significant role in shaping the country's modern history, holding power from 1978 until 2012. Saleh was known for his efforts to unify North and South Yemen and his leadership during times of conflict and upheaval. Throughout his presidency, Saleh was a controversial figure, praised by some for maintaining stability and criticized by others for corruption and authoritarian practices. His rule faced numerous challenges, including protests and uprisings inspired by the Arab Spring, which eventually led to his stepping down from office in 2012 under a Gulf Cooperation Council brokered agreement. After leaving office, Saleh remained a influential but divisive figure within Yemen’s complex political landscape. His relations with various factions and regional powers continued to impact Yemen's ongoing conflict. Saleh’s legacy is highly debated, representing both a figure of stability for some and a symbol of repression for others. Ali Abdullah Saleh was born in 1947 in Yemen and rose through military ranks before becoming president. His long tenure was marked by efforts to consolidate power and navigate regional tensions. Despite facing numerous threats and opposition, he managed to maintain control over Yemen's political scene for decades. He was known for his strategic alliances, including with neighboring Gulf countries and regional powers. Saleh’s leadership style was often characterized by a mix of modernization efforts and authoritarian governance. His influence extended beyond Yemen’s borders, making him a key figure in Middle Eastern geopolitics. After his resignation, Saleh continued to be involved in Yemen’s intricate power struggles until his death in 2017. His passing marked the end of an era and significantly impacted Yemen’s ongoing conflict and political future. His legacy remains widely debated among Yemenis and international observers alike.