"We do not recognize the caliphate, they only sow hatred among Muslims". This is what has been stated a few minutes ago by the spokesman of al-Qaeda in the Arabian peninsula and in the Islamic Maghreb, Khaled Batarfi, in a joint note by the two jihadist groups. The video was published on the Twitter accounts of the two al-Qaeda groups shortly after today's 12,40.
"We reiterate what was stated by Sheikh Ayman al-Zawahiri (leader of al-Qaeda) and other scholars and leaders of the Ummah (the Muslim nation). We do not recognize this caliphate as legitimate, nor will we swear allegiance to those who do not recognize the Manhaj (methodology in to implement the creed and the laws of Islam.) Part of their authority is based on strength and bloodshed, declaring Muslims themselves unbelievers. Their authority was not acquired through Shoura (consultation) or with mutual consent. They did not promote unity among the jihad factions, but chose to declare war on their Muslim brothers. Instead of directing their struggle towards the enemies of the Ummah and throwing their arrows at Jews and Christians, they chose to attack the homes of Muslims. They do nothing but sow hatred among Muslims. We, instead, try to collaborate, assisting and advising every Islamic group, among others Jihad and non-jihadist groups. We are a group that aims at cooperation and solidarity. Our goal is to lead the jihad against the enemies of the Ummah. We do not preach for the Muslim masses, but for the whole human race. The well-being and the interest of the Ummah it is our interest. The concerns and priorities of Ummah are our concerns. The Islamic State imposes its creed by force. In the name of Allah, many have left their lands to join the caliphate, but is it right to shed the blood of Muslims? ".
The video of al-Qaeda in the Arabian peninsula and in the Islamic Maghreb comes in response to a recent ISIS statement that has declared all other jihadist groups illegitimate. In his statement, Isis spokesman Abu Muhammad al-Adnani threatened to kill with a bullet in the head, anyone who refuses to accept the authority of the caliph.
