Blog 5: Al qaeda and the Mali mountains

The article talked about Al Qaeda in the African country of Mali. Al Qaeda has made the Tigharghar Mountains their hide out. As the article points out, it is difficult to stop the insurgences because they have filled the mountains with land mines and other explosive devices. Even drones it suggests; could not conduct good surveillance through the mountains. The mountain chain has been a safe haven for illegal activity for many years, weather for drug trafficking from South America or now, terrorist groups. African forces along with French forces are currently trying to dissolve the situation. Just recently the terrorist group struck with a car bombing in the Kidal, killing six people. Last month, they attacked a BP gas plant and took hostages for multiple days. Another reason these mountains are such a good hide out spot is because they boarder Algeria and leaders right in to Algeria’s Hoggar Mountains. Interestingly, Al Qaeda has built intricate passages ways throughout the mountain region; some are wide enough for trucks to pass through with water, food, and ammunition. As stated by Robert Fowler, a former United Nations Diplomat, Al Qaeda never owned Afghanistan, They do own northern Mali."

The Article on Al Qaeda in Mali is informational and describes the dangers they have on the Mali citizens. It showcases the reasons why the United Nations cannot just go in and eliminate the terrorist group. The article however, makes it seem like the only reason Mali is getting outside help is because of their resources. It does not state the danger of the people, only that some resources are threatened. This shows the reasons behind why the article might have been written. As of now, there are no American forces in Mali, just those of the French. This shows how concerned the United States truly is. But, with Americans showing mostly negative views of the war on terror and the economic problems right now, this may be the reason why American forces are not in Mali. Al Qaeda has surely set themselves up for a long stay in Mali with the building of passages ways for resources and escape. Al Qaeda uses the mountains very well and there is really nothing that can be done humanely. The article shows Al Qaeda not being destabilized but in many ways getting stronger and furthering their influence.

                                                                                                                  

Al Qaeda finds new stronghold in rugged mountains of Mali as it regroups in Africa
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2013/02/27/malian-mountains-provide-perfect-anctuary-for-al-qaeda-report-finds/#ixzz2MFrdVCNN

LeeAnna Souther

Soc 202-02  

02/28/2013 10:41pm