The State of Al Qaeda, Its Affiliates, and Associated Groups View from Outside Experts

Al Qaeda declared war on the United States and then successfully attacked us multiple times in 1998 and 2000, culminating with the horrific attack on 9/11. Since then Al Qaeda, its affiliates, and associated groups have maintained their global presence, increased their safe havens, and expanded their influence. They continue to plot attacks against our homeland and our allies and partners around the globe. In an op-ed just a few weeks ago Peter Bergen asserted that, and I quote, ''From Aleppo in western Syria to Fallujah in central Iraq, Al Qaeda now controls territory that stretches more than 400 miles across the heart of the Middle East. Indeed, Al Qaeda appears to control more territory in the Arab world than it has done at any time in history.'' Al Qaeda appears to be a growing threat. These trends are disturbing and lie in stark contrast to the President Obama's wishful narrative that Al Qaeda is on a path to defeat. While the President seeks an end to war on terrorism and is not providing the leadership necessary for our efforts in Afghanistan, Al Qaeda seeks a continued war against the United States and the West. This is the reality, and this is what our policy and strategy must address. To do otherwise puts the United States and our interests across the globe at dire risk.