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Kendall Qualls Reflects on the Evolution of al-Qaeda and the American Identity 25 Years After 9/11

Kendall Qualls, a U.S. Army Veteran and businessman, observed that the United States was not at war with any nation when the September 11 attacks occurred. He noted that the country was a free people who believed their liberties were a gift from God, rather than a permission slip from government. Qualls highlighted that the United States is the only nation outside of Israel that places the Ten Commandments in a position of national prominence, reflecting a confession of faith. In a broader context, the administration announced the removal of extremist preacher Abdullah al-Muhaysini from the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons list. This move is linked to a new policy on Syria, which also saw the removal of the Nusra Front and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham from the list. Experts note that while al-Qaeda's core has weakened, its regional branches remain strong in Africa and Asia. The group has shifted from spectacular acts of violence toward local structures and grassroots actions. While the Islamic State has been more media-effective, al-Qaeda has taken a long-term approach to survival through localization.

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