This research paper explores the current strategic and ideological agenda of al-Qaeda leader, Ayman alZawahiri.
To better understand how al-Zawahiri aims to retain international relevance, survival and
sustainability, the paper assesses al-Zawahiri’s speeches and actions in recent years that articulate his world-view
objectives. Importantly, this paper will argue that although the “Far Enemy” remains a priority, and will not be
abandoned by al-Qaeda, al-Zawahiri has renewed the terrorist group’s emphasis on the “Near Enemy” and seeks
to create safe bases across the Islamic world for al-Qaeda and its affiliates to function and grow. This paper will
also illustrate that it would be naive to dismiss al-Zawahiri and al-Qaeda’s relevance as a global threat as the
Egyptian is laying the foundations for al-Qaeda’s future. The paper also compares and contrasts al-Zawahiri’s
historical motivations and how that fits into his current doctrine. Lastly, this paper dissects al-Zawahiri’s
paradoxical nature and mixed messaging which could impact on al-Qaeda’s attempts to replenish the terrorist
group’s ranks.