Anwar al-Awlaki, an American-born cleric turned Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) member with immeasurable influence on Western jihadists, was reportedly killed today by a U.S. drone strike in Yemen. Equally as important, but less widely reported in the media, is that along with him was Samir Khan, another American who joined AQAP in Yemen two years ago. Khan was the primary editor of the famous Inspire Magazine, an English-language online magazine that taught Westerners how to be a part of the jihadist movement. The seventh issue of the magazine was released just two days ago.
Awlaki and Khan – though not key leaders of AQAP as has been reported – were crucial for the production of AQAP’s English language propaganda. If they are dead, this is a huge loss for all English (and Arabic) speaking jihadists that were inspired by these individuals.
While these individuals (particularly Awlaki) can never be replaced – they way everyone tried to decide who would replace Osama bin Laden – the ideology propagated by these men will continue to live on. This is why, much like with the death of bin Laden, the movement will not die with its leaders. Instead, Al Qaeda and its affiliates have managed to create an ideology that is supported by its grassroots movement, ensuring its survival.
For an in depth analysis of how Awlaki became the most likeable terrorist among Western supporters, read: You Too Can Be Awlaki!
