[eleni121]

They probably went to Yemen first! Then they went to Pakistan probably via Saudi Arabia. Of course, I don't know this for sure, but they definitely did not go to Afghanistan directly from the US.

As for their "tightness" - that's partly because their ways are so different from mainstream American ways and the aloofness and secrecy is meant to to keep Americans at arm's length in general from knowing the sordidness (yes sordidness) of reality in Yemeni communities.

There is also the element of fear within the community itself, especially among the 2nd and 3rd generation females.

[xJones]

Interesting comments.

As for their "tightness" - that's partly because their ways are so different from mainstream American ways and the aloofness and secrecy is meant to to keep Americans at arm's length in general from knowing the sordidness (yes sordidness) of reality in Yemeni communities.

Okay, I have to ask, how sordid are they? It sounds awful.