The Nexus of Deobandi Militancy : Terrorism, Funding, Taliban Connection and Al Qaeda Affiliation in Afghanistan
The Nexus of Deobandi Militancy : Terrorism, Funding, Taliban Connection and Al Qaeda Affiliation in Afghanistan
Introduction:
Deobandi militancy has become a significant concern in Afghanistan, with connections to the Taliban and Al Qaeda. This article delves into the funding sources of Deobandi militants and explores their connections to these terrorist groups. By examining available references and news reports, we can gain insights into the complex interplay of these entities.
Deobandi Militancy: An Overview
Deobandi militancy represents a faction of sunnis that emerged in the late 19th century on the Indian subcontinent. While the majority of Deobandis follow peaceful interpretations, a small segment has adopted extremist ideologies, leading to militant activities. These groups maintain connections with Taliban and Al Qaeda.
Sources of Funding:
a. Madrasas and Charitable Organizations:
Certain Deobandi-affiliated madrasas (seminaries) and charitable organizations have faced allegations of providing financial support to militant activities. These institutions receive funds from domestic and international donors, including sympathizers of Deobandi ideology. The lack of strict oversight and regulation allows for potential diversion of funds towards extremist causes.
b. Criminal Activities:
Deobandi militant groups engage in illicit activities to generate funds. These include drug trafficking, extortion, kidnapping for ransom, and smuggling. The revenue generated from such activities significantly contributes to sustaining their operations and supporting their connections with Taliban and Al Qaeda.
Connection to Taliban:
a. Shared Ideological Roots: Deobandi militant groups, such as the Haqqani Network and Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), share ideological affinities with the Taliban and a strong link and symbiotic relationship and networking with the Taliban-AQ regime. The Taliban’s adherence to a strict interpretation of Deobandi Islam creates a common platform for cooperation and support. This shared ideology facilitates the exchange of fighters, resources, and intelligence.
b. Operational Collaboration: Deobandi militant groups have been involved in joint operations with the Taliban, particularly in the border regions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. They collaborate in conducting attacks, providing safe havens, and facilitating the movement of fighters. This connection strengthens the overall capabilities of the Taliban, enabling them to sustain their insurgency.
Affiliation with Al Qaeda:
a. Historical Ties:
Deobandi militant groups have historical connections with Al Qaeda, dating back to the anti-Soviet jihad in Afghanistan during the 1980s. Al Qaeda emerged during this period and maintained close ties with various Deobandi factions, including the Taliban. These historical connections continue to influence their relationship today.
b. Shared Objectives:
Al Qaeda and Deobandi militants share a common goal of establishing puritanical Islamic states governed by their strict interpretations. Both groups seek to undermine existing governments and replace them with their preferred ideologies. This alignment of objectives has resulted in cooperation, including the provision of safe havens, training facilities, and joint operations.
Conclusion:
The connection between Deobandi militancy, Taliban, and Al Qaeda poses a significant security challenge in Afghanistan. Funding from madrasas, charitable organizations, and involvement in illegal activities enables the sustenance of Deobandi militant operations. Their ideological affinity with the Taliban and historical ties with Al Qaeda further strengthen the nexus. To effectively address this issue, comprehensive measures involving intelligence sharing, targeted counter-terrorism operations, and efforts to disrupt funding networks associated with Deobandi militancy are crucial.
As shown by Stephen Tankel’s studies, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), AQ-Taliban, ISIS etc. share a number of similarities which are not mere coincidences.
https://www.wionews.com/world/lashkar-e-taiba-leader-who-prepared-terrorists-for-2611-mumbai-attack-dies-in-prison-598450
The latest 2023 UN Report on Afghanistan discern the obvious facts :
References:
Jane’s Intelligence Review. (2019). Deobandi Militancy in Afghanistan.
International Crisis Group. (2020). The Evolution of the Taliban in Afghanistan.
https://rat-blog.univie.ac.at/?p=3400
https://carnegieendowment.org/files/Lashkar-e-Taiba_in_Perspective.pdf
https://carnegieendowment.org/files/LeT_menace.pdf
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/comment/deobandi-extremism-that-funds-the-taliban-299150
https://newlinesmag.com/essays/the-long-shadow-of-deobandism-in-south-asia/
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