Publication

This edition of Connections journal focuses on the ongoing rivalry between al-Qaeda and the so-called Islamic State (IS). The publication’s eight articles specifically look at 1) the two groups’ role in the ‘Thirty Years’ War’ in the Middle East; 2) the ideologies and conceptions of history they both have; 3) their current rivalry in Afghanistan and Pakistan; 4) the balance of power between al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula and IS in Yemen; 5) IS’ expansion into North Africa and the Sahel and its competition with al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb; 6) the presence of foreign fighters from Russia and other post-Soviet states in jihadist groups; 7) the different ways IS and al-Qaeda perceive the utility of foreigners in their ranks; and 8) how both groups interpret the roles women should play in jihad.