New Al Qaeda Plot?

The lead story in today’s New York Times is titled, “Shaky Pakistan Seen as Target of Qaeda Plots.” It describes a new regional focus of Al Qaeda in Pakistan as opposed to more high-profile attacks in the United States and the West.

The article, frankly, is disturbing. According to recent intelligence, Al Qaeda seems to be work to destabilize Pakistan in light of Taliban gains in the Swat Valley and Buner. Plus the organization seems to have developed the sophistication to know when to cloak its activities and when to broadcast them. As a foreign group, their violent tactics could backfire in Pakistan so they have wreaked their havoc under the cover of regional groups.

As evidence of Al Qaeda’s presence, the article cites a truck bomb destroyed on April 19 after a U.S. Predator missile hit it. The size of the explosion indicated a significant number of explosives clearly designed for a suicide bomber.

Though the article discounts the possibility of the Taliban and Al Qaeda taking over the Pakistani government, that is the clearly expressed aim of both groups. Only the size of the Pakistani Army and the use of advanced technologies, such as the Predator drone, seem to be standing in their way.

Another benefit of Al Qaeda’s participation with Taliban regional groups involves recruiting. Apparently, as the Taliban take over more territory, Al Qaeda benefits from an increased applicant pool because they can recruit with impunity behind the Taliban lines. This additional recruiting seems to be particularly important in replacing senior Al Qaeda leadership killed off by the United States.

At least, we’re staying up to date with Al Qaeda strategy and thus can take steps to counter it.