Despite the prevalence of Somali piracy over the past few years, many security analysts have downplayed the possibility of organized terrorist groups joining the mix. After all, al-Shabaab, an Islamic extremist organization based in Somalia, operates well south of the major lanes funneling ships between Europe and points east.
But a report cited in the New York State Office of Homeland Security weekly newsletter (Feb 19-25) says that an al-Qaeda cell based in Yemen known as al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) is making plans to take over the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, which connects the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, with the partnership of al-Shabaab.
20-thousand ships and millions of barrels of oil pass through the Straits each year, and analysts say a disruption of the supply line would cause a major disruption to the European oil market.
Said al-Shiri, a former detainee at Guantanamo Bay and the AQAP number two ranking official, said in a released audio tape that “the strait will be closed and the grip of will be tightened around the throat of the Jews.”
While military analysts do not believe that terrorists could actually take over control of the straits, the capability exists to cause major havoc upon commercial shipping.
Source: New York State Office of Homeland Security Intelligence Division
To reply to this message, enter your reply in the box labeled "Message", hit "Post Message."
