Amid So Called Links and Connections

We are in the middle of an intensive media hunt for pointers to who is behind the Sharm El-Sheik terror attack. Among the stronger tracks is the identification of a body believed to be one of the bombers. Also interesting is the force-testing of four families for their DNA. It will eventually enable identification of other suspected corpses.

Other ‘links’ and ‘connections’ are near to no-sensers, e.g. "the strategy and planning are similar to last year’s attack" and, "the choice of target is similar" (e.g. locations in Sinai popular with Israelis). That two groups made identical conclusions in two different years, or that the 2005 attackers learned from the 2004 attack means nothing more than what is said. Keep tracking these tracks, yes; suspects from 2004 or persons connected with them might be found. But at this point, we know nothing more. By reading too much into these ‘links,’ we are – perhaps willingly – downplaying other possibilities. More valuable is the similarity of explosive materials in the 2004-2005 attacks, if that claim is true.

Expert opinions on Al-Qaeda’s involvement are also sketchy, largely due to confusion about what kind of animal Al-Qaeda is today. As for what role this organization might have played in Sharm, I believe this quote will prove to be on the spot:

"Al Qaeda is finished. But there is Al Qaedaism. This is a powerful ideology that drives local groups to do what they think Osama bin Laden wants."

Assisted by each other, various cells will find contacts and supporters who can provide them with what they do not have themselves. It is a web of people who feel alike. This excludes direct control by a leader on the top, but not the distribution of know-how, finances and intelligence.
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