Abdelhamid Abu Zeid was identified in a video released two weeks ago to show the French government that the hostages were alive (Al-Andalus via AFP-Getty Images) 'Emir Of The South' Abu Zeid Poised To Take Over al-Qaeda In NW Africa -- Washington Post
PARIS -- For many Europeans, Islamic terrorism has a new face: Abdelhamid Abu Zeid, the "emir of the south."
Abu Zeid, also known as Abid Hammadou, is a wiry Algerian with a black beard, going on 50, who commands one of two squads of al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb active outside Algeria. The turbaned combatants, Algerians and other North Africans allied with Osama bin Laden, have been marauding for nearly a decade in desolate Sahelian wastelands along the borders of Mali, Niger, Mauritania and Algeria.
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More News On The Growth Of Al Qaeda In North Africa
North African states at risk of being overrun by al-Qaeda -- The Telegraph
North Africa to step up battle against Al-Qaeda: source -- AFP
Al-Qaida in North Africa seen as key Europe threat -- Seattle Times/AP
Al Qaeda in North Africa seen as key Europe threat -- CTV
North African spy chiefs meet to fight Al Qaeda -- AFP
Italy allows extradition of French al Qaeda suspect -- Reuters
France suspects al-Qaeda behind Niger kidnappings -- BBC
Is The US Adopting a Policy of Appeasement in North Africa? -- Morocco Board opinion