Doubts in the Jihadist Alliance

The complex dynamics between jihadist groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIL illustrate tensions arising from strategic alliances. Al-Qaeda's dealings with Iranian authorities, particularly through key figures like Seif al-Adul and his connections to Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, raise questions about loyalty and ideological purity among their affiliates. The ceasefire negotiations with Houthis, perceived by some as capitulation, may provoke discontent among jihadists in Yemen. This reflects a historical pattern where ISIL leverages accusations of Al-Qaeda's alleged compromises and alliances with governing forces to assert its own stance of absolute commitment to jihad, contrasting with Al-Qaeda's pragmatic strategy of forming alliances for tactical benefits.