AIAI
Al-Ittihad al-Islami − Somalia
Somalia’s largest militant Islamic organization rose to power in the early 1990s following the collapse of the Siad Barre regime. Aims to establish an Islamic regime in Somalia and force the secession of the Ogeden region of Ethiopia.
Activities
Primarily insurgent-style attacks against Ethiopian forces and other Somali factions. The group is believed to be responsible for a series of bomb attacks in public places in Addis Ababa in 1996 and 1997 as well as the kidnapping of several relief workers in 1998. AIAI sponsors Islamic social programs, such as orphanages and schools, and provides pockets of security in Somalia.
Strength
Estimated at some 2,000 members, plus additional reserve militias.
Location/Area of Operation
Primarily in Somalia, with limited presence in Ethiopia and Kenya.
External Aid
Receives funds from Middle East financiers and Western diaspora remittances, and suspected training in Afghanistan. Maintains ties to al-Qaida. Past weapons deliveries from Sudan.
Activities
Primarily insurgent-style attacks against Ethiopian forces and other Somali factions. The group is believed to be responsible for a series of bomb attacks in public places in Addis Ababa in 1996 and 1997 as well as the kidnapping of several relief workers in 1998. AIAI sponsors Islamic social programs, such as orphanages and schools, and provides pockets of security in Somalia.
Strength
Estimated at some 2,000 members, plus additional reserve militias.
Location/Area of Operation
Primarily in Somalia, with limited presence in Ethiopia and Kenya.
External Aid
Receives funds from Middle East financiers and Western diaspora remittances, and suspected training in Afghanistan. Maintains ties to al-Qaida. Past weapons deliveries from Sudan.