Al Qaeda criticizes Saudi relations with West during President Trump’s visit
Al Qaeda released an audio message from Hamza bin Laden and a news bulletin during President Trump’s recent visit to Saudi Arabia. Hamza does not mention the American delegation, but he does criticize the Saudi family’s historical dealings with the British. The one-page newsletter specifically addresses Trump’s visit and claims that a new center for combating extremism in Riyadh will really be used “to fight faith, purity, and commitment.”
Maulana Asim Umar, a Pakistani Taliban and al Qaeda propagandist, is featured in a new message disseminated by As Sahab. Umar calls on Indian Muslims to take part in the “global jihad” and emphasizes the importance of the fight in Syria.
Abu Khalil al Madani, a member of al Qaeda’s shura council, has appeared in his first video since 2008. After the loss of key propagandists in drone strikes in 2012, al Qaeda has begun to feature new leaders in its messaging.