Al Qaeda’s New Tactics

Osama Bin Laden and Al Qaeda’s new tactics are both broader in scope and more focused in purpose. Judging by recent attacks, more countries have been placed on Bin Laden’s hit list. The US was previously Al Qaeda’s bulls-eye, but now most of the West is on the dartboard. Although more countries are now fair game, the targets are more specific: the heart of economic well-being. As noted, Bin Laden reveled in the damage inflicted on the American economy after September 11. This tactic continues with the recent attacks on an oil tanker off the coast of Yemen and the tourist haven of Bali. If the recent audio tape purported to be the voice of Bin Laden is any indication, another major strike is soon in the works. Bin Laden’s signature is to make a proclamation prior to his next attack. All of these developments hint at what the author refers to as Al Qaeda 2.0 – virtual presence (audio, video, and the internet), a widening of targets, and a narrowing of strike zones. – YaleGlobal