Al Qaeda’s Struggling Campaign in Syria by Seth G. Jones, Charles Vallee and Maxwell B. Markusen – Center for Strategic and International Studies Report
As the Islamic State’s control of territory in Iraq, Syria, and other countries declines, al Qaeda has attempted to resurge and reposition itself at the center of global Salafi-jihadist activity. Syria has been perhaps its most important prize. For some, al Qaeda’s cunning and concerted efforts in Syria and other countries highlight the group’s resilience and indicate its potential to resurge and rejuvenate. Yet a growing body of evidence suggests that al Qaeda has largely failed to take advantage of the Syrian war. The importance of Syria for al Qaeda’s leadership raises several questions. How has al Qaeda fared in Syria? What have been its most significant challenges? What do answers to these questions suggest about al Qaeda’s future in Syria and the region? Looking forward, the most significant challenge may be assessing what happens next in Syria and the region.