Publication

This brief argues that failed terrorist attempts before and surrounding the eve of Osama Bin Laden's death reflect al-Qaeda's determination to continue to carry out sophisticated, mass-casualty terrorist attacks against the United States. It notes that events of the Arab Spring have in fact given the organization and its supporters new momentum and maneuvering room. The authors write that despite the premature announcements of American officials about al-Qaeda's impending demise, it seems that only close, effective cooperation between the US and its allies, such as Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and others, is likely to prevent showcase attacks that the terrorists continue to plan and attempt to launch in the West.