Rudy Atallah

Rudolph "Rudy" Atallah is a distinguished professional with extensive experience in military, counterterrorism, and international security. He is the Chief Executive Officer of White Mountain Research, a Virginia-based company that provides tailored international security solutions with a focus on Africa and the Middle East.1

Career Highlights

Military Service:: Atallah served in the US Air Force for 21 years, retiring in 2009 with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His military career encompassed various roles, including:

• Africa Counterterrorism Director in the Office of the Secretary of Defense (2003-2009)
• East Africa Director (2003-2007)
• Country Director for Morocco and Tunisia (2007-2009)
• Air Force defense attaché accredited to six West African countries
• Director of the Sub-Saharan Africa Orientation Course at the Joint Special Operations University
• Instructor pilot with over 4,000 flight hours, including combat experience12

Post-Military Career:: After retiring from the military, Atallah continued his work in international security and humanitarian efforts:

• Nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council's Africa Center
• CEO of White Mountain Research
• Oversees evacuation and rescue of persecuted religious minorities in Northern Iraq and Syria
• Involved in funding and rebuilding homes in conflict-affected regions1

Expertise and Recognition

Atallah is recognized for his expertise in:

• National security
• Counterterrorism
• Cultural intelligence
• African security matters

He is a sought-after speaker and advisor, having appeared on various media platforms such as National Public Radio, C-SPAN, CNN, and the National Geographic Channel.1

Personal Background

• Native of Beirut, Lebanon
• Fluent in Arabic and French
• Holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Biomedical Engineering from the University of Connecticut
• Earned a Master's of Science in International Relations from Troy University1

Rudy Atallah's diverse background and extensive experience have made him a respected figure in international security and humanitarian efforts, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.