Lidia Iyassu is a retired U.S. Air Force officer with 20 years of experience in Security Forces, national security, and international affairs. Throughout her military career, she led Security Forces organizations, managed complex security operations, and advised senior leaders on force protection and security matters.

Her Air Force career included an assignment to the U.S. Department of State, where she served as a Political Affairs Officer and Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Policy Advisor. In these roles, she supported security cooperation and diplomatic efforts involving Saudi Arabia and Sub-Saharan Africa and contributed to initiatives advancing women’s
meaningful participation in peace and security.

Lidia holds a Master’s degree in Military Operational Art and Science and is currently pursuing her second Master’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy at Schiller International University. Her professional and academic interests include diplomacy, Women, Peace and Security, human rights, and international cooperation.