Many Americans have never heard of Djibouti, much less are able to locate it on a map. Although this small African country has escaped the attention of the American population, it has not gone unnoticed by American policy makers. This country's geographic location, social situation, and cultural dynamics make it key terrain in the United States' long-term strategic plan to eliminate terrorism. The purpose of this article is to provide cultural information about the country of Djibouti, while examining how the country's unique culture and social structure may influence the region. Additionally, it aims to show how the United States is attempting to exploit the strong tribal ties, key location, and declining socioeconomic conditions in this region to advance U.S. operations and positively affect U.S. interests in the region. Djibouti is slightly smaller than Massachusetts, and it is one of the least densely populated countries in the world. In 2011, Djibouti had an estimated population of 757,074 inhabitants; Massachusetts has approximately 6.6 million residents in 2009. The predominant ethnic group is Somalis, who make up 60% of the population, followed by 35% Afars and the remaining 5% from various ethnic groups (including French, Arabs, Ethiopians and Italians). More than 90% of the population is Muslim and almost all belong to the Sunni sect. In addition, the population of Djibouti remains very young. The average lifespan is only 54 years and 40% of the population is under 15 years old. These cultural components make Djibouti an ideal location for the U.S. military's non-lethal targeting efforts. Djibouti's strategic location allows it to capitalize on neighboring countries' need for a port. However, its location contiguous to poverty-stricken countries has also made it vulnerable to negative effects...... middle of paper......, 2011, from http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked /topic /166928/DjiboutiDjibouti. (nd). CIA Global Information Manual. Accessed March 12, 2011 from https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/dj.htmlDjibouti. (nd). US Department of State. Retrieved March 12, 2011, from http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/5482.htm Hiel, B. (November 22, 2009). Djibouti: American outpost in the fight against terrorism. Pittsburgh Tribune Review. Accessed March 12, 2011, from www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/nation-world/s_654457.htmlMassachusetts. (nd). United States Census Bureau. Retrieved March 13, 2011, from http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/25000.htmlSuarez, R. (April 10, 2009). Somali pirates foil American captain's escape attempt. PBS: Public Broadcasting Service. Retrieved March 12, 2011 from http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/africa/jan-june09/pirates_04-10.html