Al-Qaeda Still Potent

A terror group which globalised the concept of Jihad and have existed for more than three decades is not dependent on just one leader for its survival

With the recent killing of Al-Qaeda (AQ) chief Ayman al-Zawahri in Afghan capital Kabul a lot of speculation is happening on the future of this terror outfit. Some analysts even going to the extent and suggesting that Al-Qaeda is nearing its end. But certainly that is highly unlikely. The group survived its ideological chief Osama bin Laden’s death in 2011. In fact with the killing of Zawahri Al-Qaeda may regenerate itself and become more dynamic. Ayman al-Zawahri was an Egyptian-born jihadist who became al-Qaida’s top leader in 2011 after his predecessor, Osama bin Laden, was killed by a U.S. operation. Zawahiri was not a very charismatic personality, nor was he effective at connecting with the younger generation. As a leader of AQ for over a decade, he could not bring back the lost capabilities. But he managed to keep the terror brand alive amidst the rise of Islamic State (IS). A new leader might not have these shortcomings. The trajectory of the movement might shift dangerously with a new and more effective communicator, reaching and inspiring a new generation. This happened previously with Anwar al-Awlaki re-invigorated Al-Qaeda in Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) in the late 2000s. Reaching out to new audiences in new ways and identifying with Westerners in particular. Ironically, a new leader might benefit the movement, offering an opportunity to reinvigorate itself.

Why can’t the United Nations agree to a ceasefire in Gaza?

It is an understatement to say that the United Nations, as an idea and in action, is inherently flawed – particularly when trying to keep the peace.

Israel’s war on Gaza and recent ceasefire calls personify this reality, highlighting persistent deficiencies in the rules-based international order.

Can There Be Lasting Peace Between Armenia and Azerbaijan?

Instead of Russian and Western drafts of a peace treaty, there will now only be one: Azerbaijan’s.
Last month, Azerbaijan used force to seize control over Nagorno-Karabakh, a long-disputed ethnic Armenian enclave, displacing almost the entire Karabakh Armenian population. It might seem that their exodus has paved the way for a comprehensive peace deal between Azerbaijan and Armenia: after all, if the Armenian presence in the region is no longer a political factor, what is there to argue about? Yet Karabakh was not the only source of conflict between the two countries. Behind it loom other territorial disputes.

How AUKUS Plus Could Add To Indo-Pacific Coalition Building – Analysis

The idea of ‘AUKUS Plus’ has re-emerged after the UK Foreign Affairs Committee issued a 2023 report saying the United Kingdom should extend cooperation ‘to partners such as Japan and South Korea’ as part of AUKUS ‘Strand B’ — or ‘Pillar Two’. This strand focuses on military technology cooperation with close allies on cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, quantum and undersea innovations, hypersonics and counter-hypersonics, electronic warfare capabilities and further information sharing.

The US Foreign Policy Elite Leans Towards War – OpEd

At last, a book that attacks the “Blob” and holes it below the water line. Whether it can sink it is another matter. I’m talking about a book published by Harvard Professor of International Affairs Stephen Walt, “America’s Foreign Policy Elite and the Hell of Good Intentions”. Some have called this elite, the “Blob”.

Why Supporting The People Of Iran Is Key To Achieving Peace In The Middle East – OpEd

The criminal clerical regime ruling Iran is pleased with ongoing war in the Middle East and the killing of innocent civilians. The mullahs see this humanitarian disaster as a barrier against the uprising of the Iranian people and as a means of ensuring their own survival. On the other hand, this regime seeks to overshadow the internal crises of its bankrupt regime, the explosive conditions of society, and the protests of the people.

Why Iran Is Gambling on Hamas

Tehran’s Strategy to Weaken Israel and Divide the Region

Almost from the moment that Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, foreign policy analysts began fretting about Iran. U.S. and Israeli officials have stated there is no evidence directly linking Iran to the attack, and some U.S. intelligence sources have suggested that Iranian leaders were caught off-guard. But there is little doubt that Tehran considers it a major victory that Hamas was able to dupe Israeli intelligence and pull off such a large-scale operation. Iran does not hide its strong support for Hamas, and it has outwardly praised the attack.

Afghanistan’s Return To Global Security Concerns: Challenges And Solutions – OpEd

Afghanistan has been no stranger to turbulence and upheaval, particularly concerning its historical association with terrorism. Situated at the crossroads of geopolitical rivalries, the country’s significance in the realm of global security has been pronounced, primarily owing to its tumultuous past, including periods when it served as a sanctuary for extremist elements.

North Korea–Russia Alliance Revives Cold War Divisions – Analysis

Isolated from the international community and in urgent need of weapons and ammunition to continue its fight in Ukraine, Russia has chosen to double down on its alliance with North Korea. Although Moscow and Pyongyang have been allies for decades, recent developments point to deepening military cooperation, which may prolong the war in Ukraine and increase provocations on the Korean peninsula.