Few personal details are known about Abu Arkan al-Amiri. Nonetheless, al-Amiri is reportedly a critical cog within the ISIS leadership structure and even a strong candidate to assume the role of caliph in the event of self-appointed caliph Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi’s capture or death.Erin McClam, “’Ideology Wouldn’t Die’ for ISIS, Even If Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi Did,” NBC News, http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/isis-terror/ideology-wouldnt-die-isis-even-if-abu-bakr-al-baghdadi-n245401.

Selected by al-Baghdadi himself, Abu Arkan presides over the Shura Council, the key consultative and advisory council of ISIS, comprised of nine to 11 members with traditionally religious backgrounds. Jacques Neriah, “The Structure of the Islamic State (ISIS),” Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs, September 8, 2014, http://jcpa.org/structure-of-the-islamic-state/. The Council delivers orders from the trio of top ISIS leaders, namely al-Baghdadi and his two lieutenants-in-chief, Abu Ali al-Anbari and Abu Muslim al-Turkmani. Hypothetically, al-Amiri and the Shura Council have constraining powers over decisions made by the caliph, and can even depose him. The Council also has the responsibility of selecting the successor to the current caliph,Erin McClam, “’Ideology Wouldn’t Die’ for ISIS, Even If Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi Did,” NBC News, http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/isis-terror/ideology-wouldnt-die-isis-even-if-abu-bakr-al-baghdadi-n245401. and makes recommendations for candidates for Military Council roles and to governorships.“Charting the murky leadership structure of the Islamic State,” Washington Post, October 30, 2014, http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worldviews/wp/2014/10/30/charting-the-murky-leadership-structure-of-the-islamic-state/.

Mokhtar Belmokhtar has served as the leader of the al-Qaeda-linked Maghrebian Islamist group al-Mourabitoun since July of 2015.Thomas Joscelyn, “Mokhtar Belmokhtar now leads ‘Al Qaeda in West Africa,’” Long War Journal, August 13, 2015, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2015/08/mokhtar-belmokhtar-now-leads-al-qaeda-in-west-africa.php. He is the former leader of the Algerian-based Islamist group al-Mulathamun (the Masked Brigade)—also known as al-Muaqioon Biddam (Those Who Sign in Blood)—which merged with another group to form al-Mourabitoun in 2013.“Belmohktar’s militants ‘merge’ with Mali’s Mujao,” BBC News, August 22, 2013,http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-23796920. Belmokhtar is also a co-founder of al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM).“Al Qaeda-linked group claims kidnapping of foreigners in Algeria,” Reuters, January 16, 2013, http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/16/algeria-kidnap-claim-idUSL6N0AL8DW20130116;
“Factbox: ‘Uncatchable’ jihadist kingpin said behind Algeria raid,” Reuters, January 16, 2013, http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/16/us-algeria-kidnap-belmokhtar-idUSBRE90F16Y20130116;
Lamine Chikhi, “Al Qaeda gets help from Mali officials: ex-rebel,” Reuters, April 12, 2010, http://www.reuters.com/article/2010/08/12/idUSCHI251113. In late November 2016, U.S. officials said that Belmokhtar had likely died earlier that month in a targeted French airstrike in Libya.Gordon Lubold and Matthew Dalton, “U.S.-French Operation Targeted Elusive North African Militant, U.S. Says,” Wall Street Journal, November 27, 2016, http://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-french-operation-targeted-elusive-north-african-militant-u-s-says-1480276417. However, in June 2018 it was reported that Belmokhtar was still alive and living in North Africa.Malek Bachir, “Armed Islamist leaders in Libya claim al-Qaeda's Belmokhtar is still alive,” Middle East Eye, June 13, 2018, http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/algeria-libya-mokhtar-belmokhtar-alive-qaeda-aqim-islamic-state-1799384986.

Belmokhtar’s attacks in the name of al-Qaeda have led government officials such as U.S. Representative Ed Royce to label him “one of the most elusive and deadly terrorists in North Africa.”Myra Macdonald, “Analysis: Without Belmokhtar, jihadi networks would suffer,” Reuters, March 3, 2013,http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/03/03/us-mali-belmokhtar-qaeda-idUSBRE9220EN20130303. On November 20, 2015, his group claimed responsibility for a gun and hostage attack on the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bamako, Mali. The attack—which the group claims was carried out alongside AQIM—claimed the lives of 20 people.“Mali hotel attack: Three days of national mourning begin,” BBC News, November 23, 2015, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-34897745. On January 15, 2016, the two groups are believed to have carried out a joint attack on a hotel in Burkina Faso and a police station outside of the capital, killing 30 people of 18 nationalities.Nadia Khomami, "Burkina Faso hotel attack: 18 nationalities among dead," Guardian (London), January 16, 2016, http://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/jan/15/security-forces-battle-suspected-jihadists-in-burkina-faso-capital;
Jason Burke, "Burkina Faso attack signals spread of Islamist menace," Guardian (London), January 16, 2016, http://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/jan/16/burkina-faso-attack-signals-spread-of-islamist-menace;
Tim Lister, "Burkina Faso attack demonstrates al Qaeda revival in Africa," CNN, January 16, 2016, http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/16/world/burkina-faso-attack-al-qaeda/;
Drew Hinshaw and Zoumana Wonogo, “Al Qaeda Attacks in Burkina Faso Kill at Least 30,” Wall Street Journal, January 17, 2016, http://www.wsj.com/articles/operation-ends-at-burkina-faso-hotel-seized-by-al-qaeda-1452936866.

Following the November 2016 airstrike targeting Belmokhtar, U.S. and French officials refused to immediately confirm the terrorist’s death.Gordon Lubold and Matthew Dalton, “U.S.-French Operation Targeted Elusive North African Militant, U.S. Says,” Wall Street Journal, November 27, 2016, http://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-french-operation-targeted-elusive-north-african-militant-u-s-says-1480276417. Belmokhtar has been reported killed on multiple occasions, and was the target of a June 2015 U.S. airstrike in Libya.Eric Schmitt, “U.S. Airstrike in Libya Targets Planner of 2013 Algeria Attack,” New York Times, June 14, 2015, http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/15/world/middleeast/us-airstrike-targets-qaeda-operative-in-libya.html;
Peter Cooney and Arshad Mohammed, “U.S. Confirms Militant Belmokhtar Was Target of Libya Air Strike,” Reuters, June 15, 2015, http://www.reuters.com/article/us-libya-usa-target-idUSKBN0OV00P20150615?mod=related&channelName=worldNews. The Libyan government initially said that Belmokhtar was killed in the strike,Reuters, “Libya Says 'Uncatchable' Veteran Militant Killed in U.S. Strike,” New York Times, June 15, 2015, http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2015/06/15/world/africa/15reuters-usa-libya.html. but later told the Associated Press that tests were needed to determine his status.Sarah El Deeb and Lolita C. Baldor, “Libya: Unclear if US strikes killed al-Qaida leader,” Associated Press, June 15, 2015, http://bigstory.ap.org/article/b80013646d354dadbef3907523bf5150/libyan-islamist-says-us-strike-missed-al-qaida-linked. The U.S. government did not confirm Belmokhtar’s death in the June 2015 strike, and the terrorist purportedly resurfaced in succeeding months. In July of 2015, al-Mourabitoun’s shura council named Belmokhtar as the group’s leader.Thomas Joscelyn, “Mokhtar Belmokhtar now leads ‘Al Qaeda in West Africa,’” Long War Journal, August 13, 2015, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2015/08/mokhtar-belmokhtar-now-leads-al-qaeda-in-west-africa.php. In October of 2016, a man claiming to be Belmokhtar issued a written statement eulogizing Tuareg leader Sheikh Ag Aoussa.Thomas Joscelyn, “Tuareg leader honored in eulogy attributed to Mokhtar Belmokhtar,” Long War Journal, October 14, 2016, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2016/10/tuareg-leader-honored-in-eulogy-attributed-to-mokhtar-belmokhtar.php. The following month, authorities suspected Belmokhtar’s involvement in the Radisson Blu Hotel attack in Mali.“Mali hotel attack: Three days of national mourning begin,” BBC News, November 23, 2015, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-34897745;
Agence France-Presse, “French minister says Algerian jihadist Mokhtar Belmokhtar 'likely behind' Mali attack,” Yahoo News, November 20, 2015, http://news.yahoo.com/french-minister-says-algerian-jihadist-mokhtar-belmokhtar-likely-195530693.html;
Missy Ryan, “The U.S. still doesn’t know if it’s killed this legendary one-eyed militant,” Washington Post, February 17, 2016, https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/wp/2016/02/17/the-u-s-government-thought-it-had-killed-this-legendary-militant-now-its-not-so-sure/.

Belmokhtar reportedly began his violent Islamist training at age 19, when he traveled to Afghanistan to fight pro-Soviet forces. Belmokhtar allegedly lost his left eye in battle. He returned to Algeria in 1992, joined the Armed Islamic Group (GIA), and fought in Algeria’s civil war. He eventually joined a GIA breakaway group, the Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (GSPC).“Factbox: ‘Uncatchable’ jihadist kingpin said behind Algeria raid,” Reuters, January 16, 2013, http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/16/us-algeria-kidnap-belmokhtar-idUSBRE90F16Y20130116;
“Profile: Mokhtar Belmokhtar,” BBC News, June 15, 2015, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-21061480.

Belmokhtar was one of GSPC’s leaders by the time the group pledged allegiance to al-Qaeda in 2007. Belmokhtar co-founded the group under its new name, AQIM. He went on to command one of AQIM’s two major brigades, and was responsible for most of the group’s hostage operations targeting foreigners.ldquo;Al Qaeda-linked group claims kidnapping of foreigners in Algeria,” Reuters, January 16, 2013, http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/16/algeria-kidnap-claim-idUSL6N0AL8DW20130116;
“Factbox: ‘Uncatchable’ jihadist kingpin said behind Algeria raid,” Reuters, January 16, 2013, http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/16/us-algeria-kidnap-belmokhtar-idUSBRE90F16Y20130116;
Lamine Chikhi, “Al Qaeda gets help from Mali officials: ex-rebel,” Reuters, April 12, 2010, http://www.reuters.com/article/2010/08/12/idUSCHI251113. He was also, according to security experts, the architect of AQIM’s support network in the Sahara desert.Lamine Chikhi, “Al Qaeda gets help from Mali officials: ex-rebel,” Reuters, April 12, 2010, http://www.reuters.com/article/2010/08/12/idUSCHI251113. Because of his activities with AQIM, Interpol has issued international arrest warrants for Belmokhtar on behalf of the Algerian and Canadian governments.“Belmokhtar, Mokhtar Wanted By The Judicial Authorities of Algeria For Prosecution / To Serve A Sentence,” Interpol, accessed November 15, 2016, https://www.interpol.int/notice/search/wanted/2002-16355;
“Belmokhtar, Mokhtar Wanted By The Judicial Authorities of Canada For Prosecution / To Serve A Sentence,” Interpol, accessed November 15, 2016, https://www.interpol.int/notice/search/wanted/2013-52008.

In the Sahara, Belmokhtar integrated himself into local communities, earning loyalty by marrying into influential tribes and buying off local leaders. “PENPIX-The main players in al Qaeda's Saharan operations,” Reuters, April 12, 2010, http://www.reuters.com/article/2010/08/12/idUSCHI137569; “Factbox: ‘Uncatchable’ jihadist kingpin said behind Algeria raid,” Reuters, January 16, 2013, http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/16/us-algeria-kidnap-belmokhtar-idUSBRE90F16Y20130116. He also gained loyalty through his ability to procure food and jobs from his cigarette smuggling business. Fellow militants nicknamed Belmokhtar “the diplomat” as a result of his ability to build regional alliances, and he was even reported to have established ties with senior Malian officials.Lamine Chikhi, “Al Qaeda gets help from Mali officials: ex-rebel,” Reuters, April 12, 2010, http://www.reuters.com/article/2010/08/12/idUSCHI251113. According to one insurgent speaking in 2010, local tribes in Mali and Niger considered him “more popular than their presidents.”Lamine Chikhi, “Al Qaeda gets help from Mali officials: ex-rebel,” Reuters, April 12, 2010, http://www.reuters.com/article/2010/08/12/idUSCHI251113.

In late 2012, Belmokhtar split from AQIM and formed al-Mulathamun. In 2013, Belmokhtar and his group claimed responsibility for what is considered one of the worst international hostage crises in decades, a four-day siege on Algeria’s In-Amenas gas plant that culminated in the death of 38 hostages, most of whom were foreigners. Belmokhtar has launched violent attacks in Algeria, Mali, Niger, and Mauritania, among others.Lamine Chikhi, “WRAPUP 6-Algeria hostage crisis death toll hits 80, could rise further,” Reuters, January 20, 2013, http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/20/sahara-crisis-idUSL6N0AO37H20130120;
Lamine Chikhi, “WRAPUP 8-Algeria accuses Canadian, puts hostage toll at 38,” Reuters, January 21, 2013, http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/21/sahara-crisis-idUSL6N0AP4TU20130121;
“Niger attacks launched from southern Libya - Niger's president,” Reuters, May 25, 2013, http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/05/25/niger-attacks-libya-idUSL5N0E60DD20130525;
“Al Qaeda's widening North African jihad confounds foes,” Reuters, August 9, 2013, http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/08/09/security-qaeda-maghreb-idUSL6N0G630B20130809;
Associated Press, “3 dead, 12 wounded in attack on UN base in Mali,” Fox News, March 8, 2015, http://www.foxnews.com/world/2015/03/08/mali-3-dead-12-wounded-in-attack-on-un-base-in-northeastern-city-kidal/.

In May 2017, al-Mourabiton’s council of elders dismissed Belmokhtar as the group’s leader after an extended absence from leadership meetings dating back to the 2016 airstrike. His deputy, Abderrahmane al-Sanhaji, was chosen to replace him as the group’s new leader.Malek Bachir, “EXCLUSIVE: Notorious leader of Saharan al-Qaeda group loses power,” Middle East Eye, May 9, 2017, http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/exclusive-belmokhtar-dismissed-leadership-al-mourabitoun-274790462. That year on November 15, the Algerian government sentenced Belmokhtar to death in absentia after finding him guilty of forming and leading a terrorist organization as well as dealing weapons.“Algeria: Death sentence for Mokhtar Belmokhtar,” Middle East Monitor, October 16, 2017, https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20171016-algeria-death-sentence-for-mokhtar-belmokhtar/. In June 2018, reports surfaced that Belmokhtar was still alive and currently living somewhere between the borders of Chad, Niger, and Mali.Malek Bachir, “Armed Islamist leaders in Libya claim al-Qaeda's Belmokhtar is still alive,” Middle East Eye, June 13, 2018, http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/algeria-libya-mokhtar-belmokhtar-alive-qaeda-aqim-islamic-state-1799384986.

Amru al-Absi was a member of ISIS’s ruling Shura Council, reportedly in charge of ISIS’s media arm.Richard Barrett, “The Islamic State,” Soufan Group, November 2014, 52, http://soufangroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/TSG-The-Islamic-State-Nov14.pdf. The Shura Council is responsible for disseminating orders from ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. Al-Absi reportedly acted as a liaison between ISIS and religious leaders in the region.Richard Barrett, “The Islamic State,” Soufan Group, November 2014, 30, http://soufangroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/TSG-The-Islamic-State-Nov14.pdf.

Al-Absi was responsible for ISIS’s social-media campaign.Britta Sandberg, “Hashtags and Holy War: Islamic State Tweets Its Way to Success,” Spiegel Online, November 19, 2014, http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/interview-with-former-fbi-agent-and-islamic-state-expert-ali-soufan-a-1003853.html. In this capacity, al-Absi oversaw a cadre of mostly anonymous bloggers, writers, and researchers throughout the Middle East and North Africa to maintain ISIS’s media campaign on Twitter, YouTube, and other sites.Richard Barrett, “The Islamic State,” Soufan Group, November 2014, 30, http://soufangroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/TSG-The-Islamic-State-Nov14.pdf.

Analysts have credited al-Absi’s social-media strategy in part for ISIS’s successful recruitment of foreign fighters and ability to credibly present ISIS as a modernized alternative to al-Qaeda.Britta Sandberg, “Hashtags and Holy War: Islamic State Tweets Its Way to Success,” Spiegel Online, November 19, 2014, http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/interview-with-former-fbi-agent-and-islamic-state-expert-ali-soufan-a-1003853.html. By June 2014, ISIS had attracted 12,000 foreign fighters.Britta Sandberg, “Hashtags and Holy War: Islamic State Tweets Its Way to Success,” Spiegel Online, November 19, 2014, http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/interview-with-former-fbi-agent-and-islamic-state-expert-ali-soufan-a-1003853.html. The number had grown to 16,000 by November 2014.Britta Sandberg, “Hashtags and Holy War: Islamic State Tweets Its Way to Success,” Spiegel Online, November 19, 2014, http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/interview-with-former-fbi-agent-and-islamic-state-expert-ali-soufan-a-1003853.html. Al-Absi also reportedly convinced Chechen fighter Omar al-Shishani and his Army of Emigrants and Partisans to fight under the ISIS banner.Suhaib Anjarini, “Chechen jihadists in Syria: The case of Omar al-Shishani,” Al-Akbar English, May 1, 2014, http://english.al-akhbar.com/node/19615.

Al-Absi was previously ISIS’s governor of Syria’s Aleppo region. He became the provincial governor of Homs in July 2014.“Designations of Foreign Terrorist Fighters,” U.S. Department of State, September 24, 2014, http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2014/09/232067.htm. The U.S. has accused al-Absi of orchestrating ISIS’s kidnappings.“Designations of Foreign Terrorist Fighters,” U.S. Department of State, September 24, 2014, http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2014/09/232067.htm. Great Britain’s Telegraph dubbed him the “kidnapper-in-chief.”David Blair and Raf Sanchez, “Senior Isil commander raised £1.25 million from Qatari nationals, says US Treasury,” Telegraph, September 26, 2014, http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/qatar/11124714/Senior-Isil-commander-raised-1.25-million-from-Qatari-nationals-says-US-Treasury.html.

Al-Absi’s older brother Firas al-Absi led the rebel group Majlis Shura al-Mujahideen, or the Shura Council.Nour Malas, “As Syrian Islamists Gain, It’s Rebel Against Rebel,” Wall Street Journal, May 29, 2012, http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424127887323975004578499100684326558. Firas al-Absi went missing in late August 2012 and his body was discovered in early September.Nour Malas, “As Syrian Islamists Gain, It’s Rebel Against Rebel,” Wall Street Journal, May 29, 2012, http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424127887323975004578499100684326558.  The younger al-Absi took command of Majlis Shura al-MujahideenCharles Lister, “Islamic State Senior Leadership: Who’s Who,” Brookings Institute, November 2014, http://www.brookings.edu/~/media/Research/Files/Reports/2014/11/profiling%20islamic%20state%20lister/en_whos_who.pdf. and swore revenge on the rebel group al-Farouk Battalions for killing Firas.Khaled Yacoub Oweis, “Turf war feared after Syrian rebel leader killed,” Reuters, January 11, 2013, http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/11/us-syria-crisis-assassination-idUSBRE90A07N20130111. Al-Absi reportedly grew Majlis Shura al-Mujahideen from 180 fighters to 540.Radwan Mortada, “Al-Qaeda Leaks II: Baghdadi Loses His Shadow,” Al-Akbar English, January 14, 2014, http://english.al-akhbar.com/node/18219.

A Twitter user called WikiBaghdady credits Al-Absi for first proposing the idea of a singular caliphate to Baghdadi.Radwan Mortada, “Al-Qaeda Leaks II: Baghdadi Loses His Shadow,” Al-Akbar English, January 14, 2014, http://english.al-akhbar.com/node/18219.

Tarkhan Batirashvili—known by his alias ‘Omar al-Shishani’—was ISIS’s deputy leader and overall military commander before he was reported killed during combat in July 2016.Stephen Kalin, “Islamic State says ‘minister of war’ Shishani killed,” Reuters, July 14, 2016, http://www.cnn.com/2016/07/13/politics/isis-omar-al-shishani/. The United States has not confirmed al-Shishani’s death.Stephen Kalin, “Islamic State says ‘minister of war’ Shishani killed,” Reuters, July 14, 2016, http://www.cnn.com/2016/07/13/politics/isis-omar-al-shishani/.

For years, al-Shishani—a former sergeant in the Georgian Army—was one of ISIS’s most senior military commanders, a member of the group’s elite Shura Council, and overall commander of its armies.Stephen Kalin, “Islamic State says ‘minister of war’ Shishani killed,” Reuters, July 14, 2016, http://www.cnn.com/2016/07/13/politics/isis-omar-al-shishani/. According to the U.S. Pentagon, al-Shishani was ISIS’s “minister of war.”Stephen Kalin, “Islamic State says ‘minister of war’ Shishani killed,” Reuters, July 14, 2016, http://www.cnn.com/2016/07/13/politics/isis-omar-al-shishani/. Al-Shishani was also the reported “mastermind” behind ISIS’s swift gains in Iraq’s Anbar province in the fall of 2014, where he reportedly led a force of some 1,000 Russian-speaking fighters.Stephen Kalin, “Islamic State says ‘minister of war’ Shishani killed,” Reuters, July 14, 2016, http://www.cnn.com/2016/07/13/politics/isis-omar-al-shishani/.

Reportedly born to a Christian father and an ethnic Chechen Muslim mother, al-Shishani grew up as a shepherd boy, allegedly watching rebel fighters pass by his hometown in the Pankisi Gorge.“Hundreds Of Chechens Join ISIS, Including Group's No. 2 Leader,” NPR, September 5, 2014, http://www.npr.org/2014/09/05/345997449/hundreds-of-chechens-join-isis-including-group-s-no-2-leader. After high school, al-Shishani joined the army, where he served in the intelligence unit and received training from the United States on counterterrorism and counterinsurgency, eventually becoming a sergeant.“Hundreds Of Chechens Join ISIS, Including Group's No. 2 Leader,” NPR, September 5, 2014, http://www.npr.org/2014/09/05/345997449/hundreds-of-chechens-join-isis-including-group-s-no-2-leader;
Michael Winfrey, “How Islamic State Grooms Chechen Fighters Against Putin,” Bloomberg, October 9, 2014, http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-10-08/how-islamic-state-grooms-chechen-fighters-against-putin;
Mohanad Hage Ali, “Meet ISIS’ new breed of Chechen militants,” Al-Arabiya, August 31, 2014, http://english.alarabiya.net/en/perspective/analysis/2014/08/31/Meet-ISIS-new-breed-of-Chechen-Militants-.html. In 2010, al-Shishani was diagnosed with tuberculosis and dismissed from the army. He was arrested later that year for illegally storing weapons, and sentenced to three years in prison.“Hundreds Of Chechens Join ISIS, Including Group's No. 2 Leader,” NPR, September 5, 2014, http://www.npr.org/2014/09/05/345997449/hundreds-of-chechens-join-isis-including-group-s-no-2-leader. According to his father, this is where al-Shishani was radicalized.Michael Winfrey, “How Islamic State Grooms Chechen Fighters Against Putin,” Bloomberg, October 9, 2014, http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-10-08/how-islamic-state-grooms-chechen-fighters-against-putin. On another occasion, his father said that al-Shishani was radicalized by his older brother Tamaz.Will Cathcart, Vazha Tavberidz, and Nino Burchuladze, “The Secret Life of an ISIS Warlord,” Daily Beast,October 27, 2014, http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/10/27/the-secret-life-of-an-isis-warlord.html.

Al-Shishani moved to Syria in March 2012. There, he led a rebel brigade of Chechen fighters aligned with the Nusra Front, al-Qaeda’s formal affiliate in Syria. In March 2013, al-Shishani's group merged with other jihadists to form a larger and more structured group called Jaish al-Muhajireen wal-Ansar (Army of Emigrants and Supporters).Duncan Gardham, “EXCLUSIVE: Grinning ISIS commander who recruits jihadis from Home Counties taunts Britain 'from beyond the grave',” Daily Mail, November 18, 2014, http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2839307/Grinning-ISIS-commander-recruits-jihadis-Home-Counties-taunts-Britain-grave.html#ixzz3S6jRwlkS. Al-Shishani served as the commander.“Treasury Designates Twelve Foreign Terrorist Fighter Facilitators,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, September 24, 2014, http://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl2651.aspx.

In May 2013, al-Shishani and some of his followers from Jaish al-Muhajireen wal-Ansar pledged allegiance to ISIS. Al-Shishani was appointed ISIS’s northern commander, overseeing military operations in Aleppo, Raqqa, Latakia, and northern Idlib province. By late 2013, al-Shishani was known as the emir (leader) of northern Syria, and in charge of the group’s fighters from Chechnya and the Caucasus.“Treasury Designates Twelve Foreign Terrorist Fighter Facilitators,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, September 24, 2014, http://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/jl2651.aspx. According to his father, al-Shishani has threatened Russia, saying that one day he would “come home and show the Russians,” and that he has “many thousands following” him.Michael Winfrey, “How Islamic State Grooms Chechen Fighters Against Putin,” Bloomberg, October 9, 2014, http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-10-08/how-islamic-state-grooms-chechen-fighters-against-putin.

Al-Shishani was falsely reported killed multiple times, including in a March 2016 U.S. airstrike.Michael Kaplan, “Chechen ISIS Fighter Dead? Abu Omar Al-Shishani, Top Islamic State Commander, May Have Been Killed By US Airstrike,” International Business Times, March 8, 2016, http://www.ibtimes.com/chechen-isis-fighter-dead-abu-omar-al-shishani-top-islamic-state-commander-may-have-2332626; Barbara Starr, “U.S. assesses ISIS operative Omar al-Shishani is dead,” CNN, March 15, 2016, http://www.cnn.com/2016/03/14/politics/u-s-confirms-death-of-isis-operative-omar-al-shishani/. In July 2016, ISIS’s Amaq news agency reported that al-Shishani was killed during combat in Shirqat, Iraq, though the U.S. did not confirm al-Shishani’s death.Stephen Kalin, “Islamic State says ‘minister of war’ Shishani killed,” Reuters, July 14, 2016, http://www.cnn.com/2016/07/13/politics/isis-omar-al-shishani/>http://www.cnn.com/2016/07/13/politics/isis-omar-al-shishani/".

Mohammed Islambouli has a long history of participation and leadership in extremist groups, culminating in a partnership with Osama bin-Laden and al-Qaeda in the 1990s. Islambouli is reportedly “an expert in hijacking planes,” Dina Temple-Raston, “Al-Qaida Reasserts Itself With Khorasan Group,” NPR, October 3, 2014, http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2014/10/03/353498827/al-qaida-reasserts-itself-with-khorasan-group. and led an al-Qaeda cell in Qatar with 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed.“Profile: Mohammed Shawqui Islambouli,” History Commons, http://www.historycommons.org/entity.jsp?entity=shawqui_islambuli. In 1998, President Clinton was reportedly briefed about a hijacking plot involving Islambouli, although it is unclear whether Islambouli played a direct role in the 9/11 attacks.“Profile: Mohammed Shawqui Islambouli,” History Commons, http://www.historycommons.org/entity.jsp?entity=shawqui_islambuli. Islambouli is the brother of Khaled al-Islambouli, one of the men convicted of assassinating Egypt’s former president Anwar Sadat. Certain reports state that Islambouli, and not Muhsin al-Fadhli, is the leader of Khorasan. Dina Temple-Raston, “Al-Qaida Reasserts Itself With Khorasan Group,” NPR, October 3, 2014, http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2014/10/03/353498827/al-qaida-reasserts-itself-with-khorasan-group.

Muhsin al-Fadhli was the reported leader of Khorasan.Mark Mazzetti, Michael S. Schmidt and Ben Hubbard, “U.S. Suspects More Direct Threats Beyond ISIS,” The New York Times, September 20, 2014, http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/21/world/middleeast/us-sees-other-more-direct-threats-beyond-isis-.html?_r=0. He was killed in a U.S. airstrike in Syria on July 8, 2015.Associated Press, "Senior al-Qaida figure, Muhsin al-Fadhli, killed in US air strike in Syria, officials say," Guardian, July 21, 2015, http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/jul/22/senior-al-qaida-figure-muhsin-al-fadhli-killed-in-us-airstrike-in-syria-officials-say. Al-Fadhli was a longtime al-Qaeda operative. In 2001, al-Fadhli was allegedly one of the few al-Qaeda members given advance notice of the 9/11 attacks.“Rewards for Justice - Al-Qaida Reward Offers,” U.S. Department of State, May 18, 2012, http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2012/10/199299.htm.

In 2002, he was implicated in an al-Qaeda attack that killed one U.S. Marine in Kuwait.“Narrative Summaries of Reasons for Listing: QI.Q.184.05. Muhsin al-Fadhil Ayed Ashour al-Fadhli,” UN Security Council Committee, January 24, 2011, http://www.un.org/sc/committees/1267/NSQI18405E.shtml. Al-Fadhli also reportedly financed an attack aimed at a French oil tanker in Yemen,“Narrative Summaries of Reasons for Listing: QI.Q.184.05. Muhsin al-Fadhil Ayed Ashour al-Fadhli,” UN Security Council Committee, January 24, 2011, http://www.un.org/sc/committees/1267/NSQI18405E.shtml. which killed one crew member.“Narrative Summaries of Reasons for Listing: QI.Q.184.05. Muhsin al-Fadhil Ayed Ashour al-Fadhli,” UN Security Council Committee, January 24, 2011, http://www.un.org/sc/committees/1267/NSQI18405E.shtml.

Since the attacks in October 2002, al-Fadhli continued to work with al-Qaeda, inheriting the leadership position for al-Qaeda’s Iran-based network in 2011.“Information that Brings to Justice…” U.S. Department of State’s Rewards for Justice, http://www.rewardsforjustice.net/english/yasin_al_suri.html. According to a U.S. official from the Treasury department, the network “served as a financial conduit, collecting funds from donors throughout the Gulf and moving those funds via Iran to al-Qaeda's leadership in Afghanistan and Iraq.”Thomas Joscelyn, “Report: Senior Al Qaeda Facilitator ‘Back on the Street’ in Iran,” The Long War Journal, January 31, 2014, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2014/01/_as_head_al_qaeda.php.

Al-Fadhli’s responsibilities reportedly included “overseeing al-Qaeda efforts to transfer experienced operatives and leaders from Pakistan to Syria, organizing and maintaining routes by which new recruits can travel to Syria via Turkey and assisting in the movement of al-Qaeda external operatives to the West.”Thomas Joscelyn, “Report: Senior Al Qaeda Facilitator ‘Back on the Street’ in Iran,” The Long War Journal, January 31, 2014, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2014/01/_as_head_al_qaeda.php. According to the U.S. Treasury Department, in addition to moving “fighters and money through Turkey to support al-Qa’ida-affiliated elements in Syria,” al-Fadhli was also “leveraging his extensive network of Kuwaiti jihadist donors to send money to Syria via Turkey.”“Treasury Further Exposes Iran-Based Al-Qa’ida Network,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, October 18, 2012, http://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Pages/tg1741.aspx.

Al-Fadhli relocated to Syria in 2013.“Wanted Kuwaiti Terrorist Recruits, Trains Western Jihadists: al-Fadhli in Syria with Qaeda Nusra,” March 21, 2014, http://www.arabtimesonline.com/NewsDetails/tabid/96/smid/414/ArticleID/204625/reftab/36/t/WANTED-KUWAITI-TERRORIST-RECRUITS-TRAINS-WESTERN-JIHADISTS/Default.aspx.

Also Known As

• Abu Majid Samiyeh
• Abu Samia
• Muhsin al-Fadhil ‘Ayyid al-Fadhli
• Muhsin al-Fadil Ayid Ashur al-Fadhli“Recent OFAC Actions,” U.S. Department of the Treasury, February 15, 2005, http://www.treasury.gov/resource-center/sanctions/OFAC-Enforcement/pages/20050215.aspx.

Abdul Mohsen Abdallah Ibrahim al Charekh, more commonly known by his nom de guerre Sanafi al-Nasr, meaning “cultivator of victory,” was the reported deputy leader of the Khorasan group. U.S. officials confirmed that al-Nasr was a senior leader of al-Qaeda and the leader of al-Qaeda’s “Victory Commitee” (Shura al Nasr).Thomas Joscelyn, “Head of Al Qaeda ‘Victory Committee’ in Syria,” The Long War Journal, March 6, 2014, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2014/03/_at_first_nasr_staye.php. One report states that al-Qaeda’s Victory Committee “is responsible for developing and implementing al Qaeda's strategy and policies.”Thomas Joscelyn, “Head of Al Qaeda ‘Victory Committee’ in Syria,” The Long War Journal, March 6, 2014, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2014/03/_at_first_nasr_staye.php. On October 15, 2015, the U.S. military killed al-Nasr in an airstrike in northwest Syria.Bill Roggio and Thomas Joscelyn, “US military confirms it killed senior al Qaeda strategist Sanafi al Nasr in airstrike in Syria,” Long War Journal, October 18, 2015, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2015/10/us-military-confirms-it-killed-senior-al-qaeda-strategist-sanafi-al-nasr-in-airstrike-in-syria.php.

Like Khorasan's deceased leader Muhsin al-Fadhli, al-Nasr once served as the leader of al-Qaeda’s Iran-based funneling network.Thomas Joscelyn, “Senior Al Qaeda Strategist Part of So-Called ‘Khorasan Group,’” The Long War Journal, September 24, 2014, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2014/09/senior_al_qaeda_stra.php. This network “served as a financial conduit, collecting funds from donors throughout the Gulf and moving those funds via Iran to al Qaeda's leadership in Afghanistan and Iraq.”Thomas Joscelyn, “Report: Senior Al Qaeda Facilitator ‘Back on the Street’ in Iran,” The Long War Journal, January 31, 2014, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2014/01/_as_head_al_qaeda.php. The responsibilities that al-Nasr inherited included “overseeing al Qaeda efforts to transfer experienced operatives and leaders from Pakistan to Syria, organizing and maintaining routes by which new recruits can travel to Syria via Turkey and assisting in the movement of al Qaeda external operatives to the West.”Thomas Joscelyn, “Report: Senior Al Qaeda Facilitator ‘Back on the Street’ in Iran,” The Long War Journal, January 31, 2014, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2014/01/_as_head_al_qaeda.php.

Al-Nasr had an extensive presence online including Twitter.Thomas Joscelyn, “Head of Al Qaeda ‘Victory Committee’ in Syria,” The Long War Journal, March 6, 2014, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2014/03/_at_first_nasr_staye.php. According to the U.N.’s Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee, al-Nasr was “a leading terrorist Internet propagandist since 2006.”United Nations Security Council, “United Nations Security Council Adds Names of Six Individuals to Al-Qaida Sanctions List,” United Nations, August 15, 2014, http://www.un.org/press/en/2014/sc11521.doc.htm.

Ümit Yaşar Toprak, more commonly known as “Abu Yousef al-Turki,” was an alleged commander for al-Qaeda’s Syrian proxy, Jabhat al-Nusra (the Nusra Front) who trained the group’s fighters.Thomas Joscelyn, “US Airstrikes Target Al Nusra Front, Islamic State in Syria,” The Long War Journal, September 23, 2014, http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2014/09/jihadists_claim_al_n.php.The Turkish publication Today’s Zaman wrote that Toprak was detained in 2004 on suspicion of planning to assassinate then-U.S. President George W. Bush at the NATO summit in Istanbul.“Turkish Jihadist Killed During Anti-ISIL Air Strikes in Syria,” Today’s Zaman, September 24, 2014, http://www.todayszaman.com/latest-news_turkish-jihadist-killed-during-anti-isil-air-strikes-in-syria_359663.html. According to discoveries by Dubai-based reporter Jenan Moussa,Toprak was the leader of “the Wolf Unit of Jabhat al-Nusra,” the group that Moussa believes is the same as the one U.S. officials refer to as Khorasan.Jenan Moussa, “Exclusive: Documents Show that the Khorasan Group Is the Same Group as Wolf’s Nusra,” Al Aan TV, October 1, 2014, http://www.alaan.tv/news/world-news/114998/khorassan-group-is-in-fact-the-wolf-unit-of-nusra-front-documents-show.

Toprak was reportedly killed in the U.S. airstrikes conducted on September 22, 2014.Zoe Mintz, “Al-Nusra Front Leader, Abu Yousef al-Turki, Killed in Syria Airstrikes: Group Says,” International Business Times, September 23, 2014, http://www.ibtimes.com/al-nusra-front-leader-abu-yousef-al-turki-killed-syria-airstrikes-group-says-1693907.

Also Known As

• Abu Yousef al-Turki
• Abu Yusuf al-Turki

Mohammed Morsi was a former president of Egypt and a longtime member of the Muslim Brotherhood.“Profile: Egypt’s Mohammed Morsi,” BBC News, last modified December 18, 2013, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-18371427. Morsi was active in establishing the Brotherhood’s political wing, the Freedom and Justice Party (FJP), in 2011.“Egypt: Muslim Brotherhood sets up new party,” BBC News, April 30, 2011, http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-13249434. In June 2012, Morsi became Egypt’s first president to win a competitive election, as a candidate on the FJP ticket. His year-long presidency was characterized by power struggles with the Egyptian military and the promotion of authoritarian rule and a Muslim Brotherhood-backed conservative agenda.Laura Smith-Spark, “The rise and rapid fall of Egypt’s Mohamed Morsy,” CNN, July 4, 2013, http://www.cnn.com/2013/07/02/world/meast/egypt-morsy-profile/index.html. The Egyptian military ousted Morsi from the presidency on July 3, 2013, and arrested him along with other Muslim Brotherhood leaders.“Profile: Egypt’s Mohammed Morsi,” BBC News, last modified December 18, 2013, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-18371427. Morsi died on June 17, 2019. He was serving an Egyptian prison sentence of 48 years for charges relating to spying, killing of protesters, and insulting the judiciary.“First sentence confirmed against Egypt’s Morsi,” Deutsche Welle, October 22, 2016, http://www.dw.com/en/first-sentence-confirmed-against-egypts-morsi/a-36121320; Adham Youssef, “Former Egypt president Mohamed Morsi found guilty of insulting judiciary,” Guardian (London), December 30, 2017, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/dec/30/egypt-mohamed-morsi-guilty-of-insulting-judiciary; Jared Malsin, “Egypt’s Ousted Islamist President Mohammed Morsi Has Died,” Wall Street Journal, June 17, 2019, https://www.wsj.com/articles/egypt-s-ousted-islamist-president-mohammed-morsi-has-died-11560789900.

Morsi was born in El-Adwah, Sharqia Governorate, Egypt, in 1951. He was raised in the village of El-Adwah on the Nile River by his father, a farmer, and his mother, a homemaker. Morsi moved to Cairo in 1975 to pursue a degree in engineering. After working as a chemical warfare technician in the Egyptian military, Morsi continued his education, receiving a master’s degree in engineering from Cairo University and then a Ph.D. in material sciences from the University of Southern California.“Profile: Egypt’s Mohammed Morsi,” BBC News, April 21, 2015, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-18371427; “Mohamed Morsy Fast Facts,” CNN, August 25, 2017, https://www.cnn.com/2012/12/28/world/meast/mohamed-morsy---fast-facts/index.html. There are records that Morsi worked with NASA on their space shuttle program in the early 1980s, though Morsi now disputes this.“Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi Caught in Lie about Working for NASA,” MEMRI TV, January 11, 2013, http://www.memritv.org/clip/en/3712.htm. In 1985, he returned to Egypt to work as a professor at Zagazig University in Lower Egypt.“Mohamed Morsy Fast Facts,” CNN, August 25, 2017, https://www.cnn.com/2012/12/28/world/meast/mohamed-morsy---fast-facts/index.html. Beginning in 2000, Morsi served as a member of the Egyptian parliament, but lost his bid for re-election in 2005. In 2006, Morsi spent seven months in jail as a political prisoner under Mubarak’s regime.“Mohamed Morsy Fast Facts,” CNN, August 25, 2017, https://www.cnn.com/2012/12/28/world/meast/mohamed-morsy---fast-facts/index.html.

The 18-day uprising that led to the end of then-Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak’s 29-year authoritarian regime began on January 25, 2011. Three days later, Mubarak’s security forces led a crackdown on protesters, arresting Morsi and other Muslim Brotherhood members for their alleged participation in anti-Mubarak activities.Erin Cunningham, “Ousted Egyptian president Mohamed Morsi is referred for third trial,” Washington Post, December 21, 2013, https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/ousted-egyptian-president-mohamed-morsi-is-referred-to-third-trial/2013/12/21/9c835b62-6a69-11e3-a0b9-249bbb34602c_story.html. On January 29, 2011, Hamas, Hezbollah, and local militants reportedly stormed the Wadi el-Natround prison complex. Thousands broke free from the complex during the unrest, during which several prisoners and police officers died. The militants appeared to free 40 members of Hamas and Hezbollah and 34 Brotherhood leaders, including Morsi.Associated Press, “Egypt Court: Muslim Brotherhood, Hamas, And Hezbollah Broke President Morsi Out Of Jail in 2011,” Business Insider, June 23, 2013, http://www.businessinsider.com/how-president-morsi-got-out-of-jail-in-2011-2013-6. Morsi would later be charged in 2013 of conspiring with Hamas and Hezbollah to orchestrate the prison break, though he claimed he was freed by local residents.Associated Press, “Egypt Court: Muslim Brotherhood, Hamas, And Hezbollah Broke President Morsi Out Of Jail in 2011,” Business Insider, June 23, 2013, http://www.businessinsider.com/how-president-morsi-got-out-of-jail-in-2011-2013-6.

Following popular protests, Mubarak resigned on February 11, 2011. In April 2011 and in the aftermath of the popular revolt, the Muslim Brotherhood established the FJP as a civil group, led by Morsi.“Egypt: Muslim Brotherhood sets up new party,” BBC News, April 30, 2011, http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-13249434. Although the FJP initially claimed it would not run a candidate for the presidency, the group put Morsi on its presidential ticket after its first choice, Khairat el-Shater, was disqualified from running.David D. Kirkpatrick, “Named Egypt’s Winner, Islamist Makes History,” New York Times, June 24, 2012, http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/25/world/middleeast/mohamed-morsi-of-muslim-brotherhood-declared-as-egypts-president.html. In November 2011, the FJP won a plurality of seats in the parliamentary elections, and in June 2012, Morsi won nearly 52 percent of the presidential vote in a close runoff with retired air force commander Ahmed Shafiq.“Egypt’s Islamist parties win elections to parliament,” BBC News, January 21, 2012, accessed May 30, 2014, http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-16665748; David D. Kirkpatrick, “Named Egypt’s Winner, Islamist Makes History,” New York Times, June 24, 2012, http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/25/world/middleeast/mohamed-morsi-of-muslim-brotherhood-declared-as-egypts-president.html. During the first few months of Morsi’s presidency, the military and the Muslim Brotherhood engaged in a power struggle for legitimacy and ultimate control of the government. On August 12, 2012, Morsi forced military chiefs into retirement and nullified the constitutional declaration that the military issued before his election.“Timeline of Turmoil in Egypt from Mubarak and Morsi to Sisi,” New York Times, accessed February 21, 2018, http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2013/07/02/world/middleeast/03egypt-timeline-morsi.html#/#time259_7567.

On November 22, 2012, Morsi issued an “interim Constitution declaration,” which granted him broad powers.“Morsy issues new constitutional declaration,” Egypt Independent (Cairo), November 22, 2012, http://www.egyptindependent.com/news/morsy-issues-new-constitutional-declaration. Angry demonstrators gathered in Cairo’s Tahrir Square to protest against Morsi’s expansive powers, resulting in clashes between Brotherhood supporters and anti-Morsi protesters.Abdel-Rhaman Hussein, “Egypt: protesters descend on Tahrir Square,” Guardian (London), November 27, 2012, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2012/nov/27/egypt-protesters-descend-tahrir-square. The demonstrations became increasingly violent in the following month and in the first week of December, street battles in front of the presidential palace left five dead.Abdel-Rhaman Hussein, “Egypt violence worsens as five die in Cairo clashes,” Guardian (London), December 6, 2012, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2012/dec/06/egypt-violence-worsens-five-die. By the beginning of 2013, the army warned Morsi that the increased political riots might lead to the fall of the state.“Profile: Egypt’s Mohammed Morsi,” BBC News, last modified December 18, 2013, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-18371427.

Egypt’s economy continued to falter, Morsi’s leadership allowed social policies of the past to erode, and the political dominance of the Muslim Brotherhood prompted fears of an Islamist takeover.“Timeline of Turmoil in Egypt from Mubarak and Morsi to Sisi,” New York Times, accessed February 21, 2018, http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2013/07/02/world/middleeast/03egypt-timeline-morsi.html#/#time259_7567. On June 30, 2013, in one of the biggest demonstrations since unrest began in November 2012, millions participated in mass street protests calling for Morsi’s ouster.“Timeline of Turmoil in Egypt from Mubarak and Morsi to Sisi,” New York Times, accessed February 21, 2018, http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2013/07/02/world/middleeast/03egypt-timeline-morsi.html#/#time259_7567. On July 3, 2013, the military deployed onto the streets of Egypt and overthrew Morsi. The army stated that the Supreme Constitutional Court would take over presidential powers and that Morsi’s constitutional revisions had been suspended."Abigail Hauslohner, William Booth, and Sharaf al-Hourani, “Egyptian military ousts Morsi, suspends constitution,” Washington Post, July 3, 2013, http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/egypts-morsi-defiant-under-pressure-as-deadline-looms/2013/07/03/28fda81c-e39d-11e2-80eb-3145e2994a55_story.html.

In December 2013, Morsi was charged with espionage and sponsoring terrorism. The prosecutor general also charged Morsi with leading the Muslim Brotherhood in training jihadists in the Sinai Peninsula.Abdel Halim H. Abdullah, “Prosecutor general orders Morsi tried for espionage along with Brotherhood leaders,” Egypt News Daily, December 18, 2013, http://www.dailynewsegypt.com/2013/12/18/prosecutor-general-orders-morsi-tried-for-espionage-along-with-brotherhood-leaders/.

On February 17, 2015, Morsi and fellow Muslim Brotherhood senior leaders el-Shater and Mohammed Badie were referred to a military court. The move was reportedly part of a continued crackdown on the Brotherhood.“Deposed Egyptian president Mursi to face military court,” Reuters, February 17, 2015, http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/02/17/us-egypt-court-idUSKBN0LL1JX20150217. The three were charged with murder, attempted murder, assaulting soldiers, and burning churches in Suez City. The incidents reportedly killed 31 civilians and wounded 34 soldiers.“Deposed Egyptian president Mursi to face military court,” Reuters, February 17, 2015, http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/02/17/us-egypt-court-idUSKBN0LL1JX20150217.

On May 16, 2015, an Egyptian court handed Morsi the death sentence for his role in the mass prison break in 2011. Many additional charges—such as inciting violence and sharing state secrets with Qatar during his presidency—had been leveled against him.“Mohammed Morsi, Egypt’s ex-leader, sentenced to death,” BBC News, May 16, 2015, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-32763215. Shortly after Morsi won the 2012 election, Qatar provided $2.5 billion in financial aid to Egypt. During Morsi’s presidency, Qatar committed to transferring $5 billion in both loans and grants to Cairo.Associated Press, “Qatar Doubles Aid to Egypt,” New York Times, January 8, 2013, http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/09/world/middleeast/qatar-doubles-aid-to-egypt.html. On June 16, 2015, an Egyptian court upheld the death sentence. The head judge said, “The court panel has unanimously agreed that there is no room for leniency or mercy for the defendants.”Heba Habib and Brian Murphy, “Egyptian court upholds death sentence against former president Morsi,” Washington Post, June 16, 2015, http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/former-egyptian-president-morsi-sentenced-to-life-in-latest-blows/2015/06/16/cdc28020-1410-11e5-89f3-61410da94eb1_story.html. Morsi's legal team filed an appeal in August 2015.“Egypt's deposed president Mursi appeals death sentence: lawyer,” Reuters, August 15, 2015, http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/08/15/usegypt-court-idUSKCN0QK0BK20150815..

On November 15, 2016, an Egyptian court overturned Morsi’s death sentence and ordered a retrial in relation to his role in the 2011 prison break.Reuters, “Mohamed Morsi death sentence overturned,” Guardian (London), November 15, 2016,  https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/nov/15/mohamed-morsi-death-sentence-overturned. On November 22, Morsi won another appeals victory when the same court overturned a life sentence he received on charges of spying for Iran and Hamas.Agence France-Presse, “Egypt court quashes Morsi life sentence over Hamas espionage,” Times of Israel, November 22, 2016, https://www.timesofisrael.com/egypt-court-quashes-morsi-life-sentence-over-hamas-espionage/. Addressing the final appeal from Morsi’s legal team, the court ruled in September 2017 to reduce Morsi’s sentence for spying for Qatar from the initial 40 years to 25 years in prison.“Egypt court sentences Mursi to 25 years in Qatar spy case,” Reuters, September 16, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-egypt-court/egypt-court-sentences-mursi-to-25-years-in-qatar-spy-case-idUSKCN1BR0ES.

On June 17, 2019, Morsi was on trial on espionage charges when he collapsed in the courtroom. He was pronounced dead hours later.Jared Malsin, “Egypt’s Ousted Islamist President Mohammed Morsi Has Died,” Wall Street Journal, June 17, 2019, https://www.wsj.com/articles/egypt-s-ousted-islamist-president-mohammed-morsi-has-died-11560789900. Egyptian media reported that Morsi had suffered a heart attack, but human rights organizations questioned the cause of death. According to Human Rights Watch, Morsi had repeatedly complained that he did not have access to the medicines he needed for his diabetes and liver disease during his six years of solitary confinement. On June 18, the Office of the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights called for an impartial investigation into Morsi’s prison conditions.Sudarsan Raghavan and Claire Parker, “U.N. joins call for independent probe into death of Egypt’s ousted president Morsi,” Washington Post, June 18, 2019, https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/egypts-ousted-president-morsi-buried-in-cairo-after-controversial-courtroom-death/2019/06/18/d4f0988a-919f-11e9-b570-6416efdc0803_story.html?utm_term=.8841534593d5. The Muslim Brotherhood accused the Egyptian government of murdering Morsi, while the government accused the United Nations of politicizing Morsi's death.“Mohammed Morsi: Egypt accuses UN of ‘politicising’ death,” BBC News, June 19, 2019, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-48689563.

Morsi was married to his first cousin, Naglaa Ali Mahmoud. Two of their five children were born in the United States and hold U.S. citizenship.Mayy El Sheikh, “Egypt’s Everywoman Finds Her Place Is in the Presidential Palace,” New York Times, June 27, 2012, http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/28/world/middleeast/naglaa-ali-mahmoud-an-egyptian-everywoman-in-the-presidential-palace.html?pagewanted=all.

Mohammed Badie is the official supreme guide (murshid) of the Muslim Brotherhood.Ian Lee, Salma Abdelaziz, and Tim Hume, “Muslim Brotherhood spiritual leader Mohamed Badie receives life sentence,” CNN, May 30, 2016, https://www.cnn.com/2016/05/30/middleeast/egypt-life-sentence-muslim-brotherhood-leader/index.html. Badie is serving a life sentence in Egypt on multiple charges of planning and inciting violent attacks following the July 2013 coup against Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi.“Egypt issues life sentence for Muslim Brotherhood chief,” Al Jazeera, May 8, 2017, http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/05/egypt-issues-life-sentence-muslim-brotherhood-chief-170508151622974.html.; “Brotherhood leader jailed for 25 years,” Al Jazeera, September 15, 2014, http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/09/egypt-sentences-mb-leader-25-years-jail-2014915141248871602.html. Mahmoud Ezzat acted as the Brotherhood’s temporary supreme guide from August 2013 until his own arrest in August 2020.“Egypt’s Brotherhood Names New Acting Supreme Guide,” Ahram Online, August 20, 2013, http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/0/79499/Egypt/0/Egypts-Brotherhood-names-new-acting-supreme-guide.aspx; “Egypt: Wanted Brotherhood leader Mahmoud Ezzat arrested,” Gulf News, August 28, 2020, https://gulfnews.com/world/mena/egypt-wanted-brotherhood-leader-mahmoud-ezzat-arrested-1.73483156. Ibrahim Mounir was appointed as the acting general guide after Ezzat’s arrest.“Muslim Brotherhood: ‘Ibrahim Mounir is the new acting general guide,’” Middle East Monitor, last updated September 21, 2020, https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200916-muslim-brotherhood-ibrahim-mounir-is-the-new-acting-supreme-guide/; George Mikhail, “Muslim Brotherhood appoints acting guide after arrest of leader,” Al-Monitor, September 18, 2020, https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2020/09/egypt-arrest-leader-muslim-brotherhood-successor.html.

Badie earned his doctorate in veterinary medicine in 1965,Steven A. Cook, “Who Are the Muslim Brothers,” Council on Foreign Relations, August 7, 2012, https://www.cfr.org/blog/who-are-muslim-brothers. and joined the Brotherhood in 1975.Eric Trager, Katie Kiraly, Cooper Klose, and Eliot Calhoun, “Who’s Who in Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood,” Washington Institute for Near East Policy, September 2012, http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/view/whos-who-in-the-muslim-brotherhood. He is considered among the more conservative members of the Brotherhood’s leadership and was reportedly a close associate and supporter of Brotherhood theologian Sayyid Qutb.Shadi Hamid, “A Radical Turn for the Muslim Brotherhood?,” Brookings Institution, January 26, 2010, https://www.brookings.edu/blog/up-front/2010/01/26/a-radical-turn-for-the-muslim-brotherhood/.

In 2007, Badie became a member of the Brotherhood’s international guidance bureau.“Profile of Dr Badie: a resilient leader,” Ikhwanweb: The Muslim Brotherhood’s Official English web site, January 17, 2010, http://www.ikhwanweb.com/article.php?id=22669. The Brotherhood’s Shura Council—a 100-member voting body—elected Badie as its supreme guide in January 2010.Maggie Michael, “Judges resign from trial of Muslim Brotherhood officials,” Times of Israel, October 29, 2013, http://www.timesofisrael.com/judges-resign-from-trial-of-muslim-brotherhood-officials. As the murshid, Badie oversaw the 15- to 20-member Guidance Office (Maktab al-Irshad), which is responsible for overseeing and implementing the Brotherhood’s political and administrative agenda.Eric Trager, “The Unbreakable Muslim Brotherhood: Grim Prospects for a Liberal Egypt,” Foreign Affairs, 90 (2011): 114. http://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/68211/eric-trager/the-unbreakable-muslim-brotherhood. In this position, Badie was responsible for assigning members of the Guidance Office to oversee the Brotherhood’s university recruitment efforts, implement its educational platform, or shape the group’s political strategy.Eric Trager, “The Unbreakable Muslim Brotherhood: Grim Prospects for a Liberal Egypt,” Foreign Affairs, September/October 2011, http://www.foreignaffairs.com/articles/68211/eric-trager/the-unbreakable-muslim-brotherhood.

Badie was largely responsible for making decisions concerning political maneuvers and strategies for the Brotherhood’s short-lived Freedom and Justice political party, on whose ticket Morsi ran for president of Egypt in 2012.Matthias Gebauer, Daniel Steinvorth, and Volkhard Windfuhr, “Morsi and the Muslim Brotherhood: Who Really Holds the Reigns in Egypt?” Spiegel Online, December 12, 2012, http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/president-mohammed-morsi-and-his-ties-to-the-muslim-brotherhood-a-872214.html. Egyptian national television showed meetings in which Morsi greeted Badie by kissing his hand, a gesture in the Arab world commonly meant to show obedience to a higher leader.Matthias Gebauer, Daniel Steinvorth, and Volkhard Windfuhr, “Morsi and the Muslim Brotherhood: Who Really Holds the Reigns in Egypt?” Spiegel Online, December 12, 2012, http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/president-mohammed-morsi-and-his-ties-to-the-muslim-brotherhood-a-872214.html. Some media reports have suggested that Badie wielded the true decision-making power during Morsi’s presidency.Matthias Gebauer, Daniel Steinvorth, and Volkhard Windfuhr, “Morsi and the Muslim Brotherhood: Who Really Holds the Reigns in Egypt?” Spiegel Online, December 12, 2012, http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/president-mohammed-morsi-and-his-ties-to-the-muslim-brotherhood-a-872214.html.

In early July 2013, the Egyptian military overthrew Morsi’s government and dissolved the constitution in response to escalating protests against the Muslim Brotherhood-led government. A week later, protesters gathered at Cairo’s Rabaa al-Adawiya mosque in response to Morsi’s overthrow. On July 4, Egyptian prosecutors charged Badie with inciting violence against peaceful protesters after eight people were killed during protests outside the Brotherhood’s headquarters. Nonetheless, Badie remained free and continued to speak during protests.Martin Chulov and Patrick Kingsley, “Egypt’s military arrest Muslim Brotherhood supreme leader,” Guardian (London), July 4, 2013, https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/jul/04/egypt-military-arrest-warrants-muslim-brotherhood; “Egypt Brotherhood leader Badie appears at protest rally,” Reuters, July 5, 2013, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-egypt-protests-brotherhood-badie/egypt-brotherhood-leader-badie-appears-at-protest-rally-idUSBRE9640NK20130705; “Egypt prosecutor orders arrest of top Brotherhood leader,” Reuters, July 4, 2013, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-egypt-protests-warrants/egypt-prosecutor-orders-arrest-of-top-brotherhood-leader-idUSBRE96309Q20130704; “Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood says leaders not arrested,” Reuters, July 10, 2013, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-egypt-protests-haddad/egypts-muslim-brotherhood-says-leaders-not-arrested-idUSBRE9690B320130710. That August, the military forcibly dispersed and killed more than 800 Muslim Brotherhood protesters gathered near Rabaa al-Adawiya.Shadi Hamid, “The Massacre that Ended the Arab Spring,” Atlantic, August 14, 2017, https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2017/08/arab-spring-rabaa-massacre/536847/. Badie and several other Brotherhood leaders were arrested on August 20 and charged with inciting violence.Matthias Gebauer, “Battling the Islamists: Egypt Risks Further Radicalization,” Spiegel Online, August 20, 2013, accessed May 30, 2014, http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/muslim-brotherhood-leader-mohammed-badie-arrested-in-egypt-a-917597.html; Jeffrey Fleishman, “Egypt arrests Muslim Brotherhood leader Mohamed Badie,” Los Angeles Times, August 20, 2013, http://articles.latimes.com/2013/aug/20/world/la-fg-wn-egypt-muslim-brotherhoods-spiritual-leader-arrested-20130820; “Egypt Brotherhood’s Badie Among Mass Death Sentences,” BBC News, April 28, 2014, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-27186339.

The Egyptian government accuses Badie and other senior Brotherhood leaders of incitement to violence during the summer 2013 protests.“Egyptian Brotherhood leader handed sixth life sentence: judicial sources,” Reuters, August 22, 2015, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-egypt-verdict/egyptian-brotherhood-leader-handed-sixth-life-prison-sentence-judicial-sources-idUSKCN0QR09Y20150822. According to Badie’s lawyers, the former Brotherhood leader has been prosecuted in more than 35 trials and has received three death sentences, all of which were eventually dismissed.“Egypt court quashes life sentence against Brotherhood leader,” Middle East Eye, May 9, 2017, http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/egypts-high-court-overturns-life-sentence-against-brotherhood-leader-1059716918.

On March 16, 2015, an Egyptian court sentenced Badie and 13 other Brotherhood members to death after they were found guilty of planning attacks against Egypt. The court found that the men had set up an “operations room” to plot attacks against the state in the wake of Morsi’s July 2013 ouster.“Muslim Brotherhood leader Badie sentenced to death in Egypt,” BBC News, March 16, 2015, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-31914964. In August 2014, Egypt’s grand mufti, who has veto power over capital punishment rulings, commuted Badie’s death sentence to life in prison.“Badie death sentence reduced to life in prison,” Al Jazeera, August 30, 2014, http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/08/death-sentence-badie-reduced-life-20148305040329928.html. In December 2015, another court reaffirmed the mufti’s ruling, overturning the death sentence and ordering a retrial.“Egypt court cancels death sentence of Muslim brotherhood head,” Business Standard (New Delhi), December 3, 2015, http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/egypt-court-cancels-death-sentence-of-muslim-brotherhood-head-115120300813_1.html.

On May 7, 2017, the Giza Criminal Court sentenced Badie to life imprisonment for his alleged role in inciting protests that preceded the August 2013 Rabaa massacre.“Muslim Brotherhood’s Supreme Guide Mohammed Badie sentenced to life in prison,” Al Arabiya, May 8, 2017, http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2017/05/08/Muslims-Brotherhood-leader-Mohammed-Badie-sentenced-to-life-in-prison.html. The following day, Egypt’s Court of Cassation, the country’s highest judicial body, heard a separate appeal by Badie regarding his alleged involvement in inciting violent attacks that left five dead when Muslim Brotherhood supporters attacked a Port Said police station in August 2013, for which Badie had received a life sentence.“Egyptian Brotherhood leader handed sixth life sentence: judicial sources,” Reuters, August 22, 2015, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-egypt-verdict/egyptian-brotherhood-leader-handed-sixth-life-prison-sentence-judicial-sources-idUSKCN0QR09Y20150822. The judiciary overturned Badie’s life sentence.“Egypt: The Judiciary Overturns the life sentences of the Muslim Brotherhood Supreme Guide and others in the case of the events of Port Said,” France24, May 9, 2017, http://www.france24.com/ar/20170509-%D9%85%D8%B5%D8%B1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A5%D8%AE%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%B3%D9%84%D9%85%D9%88%D9%86-%D9%82%D8%B6%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D8%A8%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%B9-%D8%B7%D8%B9%D9%86-%D9%85%D8%A4%D8%A8%D8%AF-%D8%A3%D8%AD%D8%AF%D8%A7%D8%AB-%D8%A8%D9%88%D8%B1%D8%B3%D8%B9%D9%8A%D8%AF.

Badie remains in prison. On September 28, 2017, Badie received a life sentence on charges that included inciting terrorism, leading an outlawed group, and raiding and vandalizing government facilities.“Egyptian court hands fresh life sentence to Muslim Brotherhood leader,” Reuters, September 28, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-egypt-court-badie/egyptian-court-hands-fresh-life-sentence-to-muslim-brotherhood-leader-idUSKCN1C327H. In November 2017, Badie lost an appeal against a life sentence for his role in the 2013 clashes.“Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood leader loses appeal against life sentence,” Reuters, November 15, 2017, https://www.reuters.com/article/us-egypt-court/egypts-muslim-brotherhood-leader-loses-appeal-against-life-sentence-idUSKBN1DF21O. On September 7, 2019, Badie and 10 other Brotherhood members were sentenced to life in prison for aiding in a mass prison break during Egypt’s 2011 revolution. On September 11, Badie and 10 other Brotherhood members were sentenced to life in prison on charges of spying in conjunction with Hamas.“Egypt sentences 11 Islamist leaders to life for spying,” Associated Press, September 11, 2011, https://apnews.com/2c101b12aefe4e0e992e396180da85f6; Samy Magdy, “Egypt court sentences 11 Islamists to life for prison breaks,” Associated Press, September 7, 2019, https://apnews.com/05c4bdc6153d4931a2d25f9755dcf9ee. On July 9, 2020, Egypt’s Court of Cassation upheld Badie’s life sentence on charges of violence and murder.“Egypt: 138 years in jail for Muslim Brotherhood supreme guide,” Middle East Monitor, July 16, 2020, https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20200716-egypt-138-years-in-jail-for-muslim-brotherhood-supreme-guide/; “2020 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Egypt,” U.S. Department of State, March 30, 2021, https://eg.usembassy.gov/2020-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices-egypt/. The Court of Cassation again upheld life sentences for Badie in July 2021“Egypt upholds life sentences for 10 Muslim Brotherhood figures,” Al Jazeera, July 12, 2021, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/7/12/egypt-upholds-life-sentences-for-10-muslim-brotherhood-figures. and April 2022.“Egypt court upholds life sentence against Muslim Brotherhood leader,” Middle East Monitor, April 21, 2022, https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20220421-egypt-court-upholds-life-sentence-against-muslim-brotherhood-leader/.