What is Al Qaeda today?

The essays in this volume aim to shed light on whether or not Al-Qaeda will survive the demise of its creator. This matter is ever more relevant considering the major developments currently unfolding in the Middle East. These include not only the Arab Spring, but also the departure of U.S. troops from Iraq and the predicted withdrawal of coalition troops from Afghanistan. While the Arab revolts are widely seen as a potential death blow to Al-Qaeda, the presence of Western troops in Muslim lands is often described as a boost to the jihadist cause.