Rise and Fall of Al-Qaeda in Iraq

Iraqi Al-Qaeda can be considered the most important non-governmental actor in Iraq, following the U.S. attack on this country. This group emerged as the most challenging group in opposing the political process in Iraq. It adopted a violent approach, but since 2007, it gradually began its downturn trend. This article tries to study the factors contributing to the rise and fall of Al-Qaeda in Iraq. Along these lines, the author first addresses the factors which contributed to the rise of this group and particularly increasing differences and conflicts among internal groups in Iraq as well as opposition made by Sunni groups. Then, while explaining the goals, strategies and performance of Al-Qaeda in Iraq, the author discusses the factors contributing to its weakness including reactions made by the majority of Sunni groups against it.