Al Qaeda and Associated Movements (AQAM)
In this section, the Critical Threats Project details the ideological foundations [Basics] and the region-by-region outlook [Theaters of Jihad] of al Qaeda and Associated Movements (AQAM), which refers to the al Qaeda network led by Osama bin Laden and other, potentially operationally disconnected, violent Islamist groups.
IN THIS SECTION
Diversified, Not Diminished: Al Qaeda in Pakistan Since 9/11
While al Qaeda in Pakistan no longer poses the same menace it did on 9/11, it has successfully unified and internationalized regional terror groups under its banner. Ten years later, the threat emanating from Pakistan to the region, and the world, is diversified rather than diminished.
A Still-Dangerous World
Ten years after 9/11, we remain at war against a diverse enemy network posing a threat to our homeland from Somalia to Pakistan. And yet, the regional environment today is underappreciated. It is imperative that we ground our way forward in the reality of the evolving and still dangerous environment we face.
Al Qaeda's Safe Haven in Iran
The Treasury designated six al Qaeda members as global terrorists. These operatives form a network that funnels money and personnel from the Gulf to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan via Iran and is tied to other enemy groups. Al Qaeda's safe haven in Iran is not unlike the militant sanctuary in Pakistan.
Bin Laden Is Dead
Osama bin Laden’s killing was a great moment for America and for decent people around the world. But al Qaeda has not yet been dismantled or defeated.
An Unusually Hard Target
Given the difficulty of finding Bin Laden, targeted strikes should be considered but one tool in our arsenal against terrorists.
Bin Laden, No More
The killing of Osama bin Laden is an important achievement. It does not, however, mark the end of the struggle against al Qaeda itself.
