Al-Qaeda's Palestinian Problem

While its ability to operate in the heart of the Middle East is in decline, al-Qaeda has issued increasing numbers of statements dedicated to the Palestinian arena. The increased attention is not coincidental. In distress, al-Qaeda is seeking to use the Palestinian question to improve its image by presenting itself as the Palestinians' true defender. However, Hamas's control over the Gaza Strip presents a serious dilemma for al-Qaeda. It is finding that there is no easy way to back its promises with action and that confronting Hamas may actually have undesirable consequences.