al-Qaeda's Resurgence in Afghanistan
- A new report warns of al-Qaeda's resurgence in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
- Osama Bin Laden's brother and sons may be heeding al-Qaeda's call to gather in Afghanistan.
- Security experts assess the implications of this for the West and global security.
The killing of al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri in a US drone strike in 2022 was seen by President Joe Biden as a significant moment for the families of 9/11 victims. However, Ahmad Zia Saraj, former chief of Afghanistan’s National Directorate of Security, warns that the Taliban has effectively integrated remnants of al-Qaeda into a coalition, with leaders from both groups reportedly engaging in discussions in Kabul. Saraj emphasizes that Afghanistan has become a safe haven for these groups, which have historically received protection from the Taliban. Saraj's claims, supported by fellow resistance fighter Sadiq Amini, highlight a troubling trend: the Taliban has long been a crucial ally for al-Qaeda, providing sanctuary to figures like Osama bin Laden and nurturing future terrorist leaders. Despite their assertions, the veracity of these claims remains difficult to confirm due to the Taliban's tight control over information in the country. A recent alarming development occurred in June when an Iran-based al-Qaeda leader announced a recruitment drive, inviting fighters and supporters to join the group in Afghanistan. This has raised fears among resistance fighters that a resurgence of terrorist activities could lead to another 9/11-style attack on the West if these groups are allowed to thrive. In response to these concerns, the National Resistance Front (NRF) has launched a petition urging the US government to pause humanitarian aid to Afghanistan until it can be assured that such funding does not benefit the Taliban. The petition has garnered over 272,000 signatures and calls for Ahmad Massoud to testify before Congress regarding the current situation in Afghanistan post-US withdrawal.