Zawahiri Message Could Stir Up Tensions

Generally speaking, we think the much-talked about Sunni-Shi'a divide in the Middle East is broadly confined to Iraq and Lebanon, with most of the tensions elsewhere being stirred up by Sunni governments concerned about the rising influence of Iran. However, the recent anti-Iranian rhetoric from al-Qaeda could intensify the divide among populations. In a statement released to mark the anniversary of the seventh September 11 attacks top al-Qaeda leader, Ayman al-Zawahiri says that 'the [leader of Iran] collaborates with the Americans in occupying Iraq and Afghanistan and recognises the puppet regimes in both countries, while he warns of death and

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