Al-Qaeda

Origins and formation

Al-Qaeda, Arabic for "The Base", is a global militant Islamist organization founded by Osama bin Laden, Abdullah Azzam, and several other militants in the late 1980s¹. It originated in the context of the Soviet-Afghan War, where it initially functioned as a network to help foreign mujahideen in the war against the Soviets².

Ideology and goals

Al-Qaeda's ideology is based on a radical interpretation of Sunni Islam, particularly the Salafi movement. Its primary goal is the establishment of a global Islamic caliphate. It views the West, particularly the United States, as a major obstacle to this goal and therefore considers it a legitimate target for militant attacks³.

Structure and organization

Al-Qaeda operates as a network comprising both a multinational, stateless army and a radical Sunni Muslim movement. Its structure is hierarchical, with a central command located in Afghanistan and Pakistan and several regional branches across the world⁴.

Activities and operations

Al-Qaeda is known for carrying out numerous high-profile attacks, most notably the September 11 attacks in 2001. These attacks have led to extensive efforts by the international community to combat the organization and its affiliates⁵.

Affiliates and offshoots

Al-Qaeda has spawned numerous affiliates and offshoots, including Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), and Al-Shabaab. These groups operate semi-independently but share Al-Qaeda's ideology and goals⁶.

A photograph of a desert landscape, representing the regions where Al-Qaeda affiliates operate.

Impact and legacy

Al-Qaeda's activities have had profound impacts on global security and international relations. Its attacks have led to major shifts in U.S. foreign policy and have been a major factor in the initiation of the War on Terror⁷.