By Al-Fassel | 2024-12-06

The United States is offering rewards of up to $10 million for information on key al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) leaders and their financial networks, as the group continues to pose a significant global security threat from Yemen.

The US State Department's Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program is offering up to $6 million for information on AQAP leader Saad bin Atef al-Awlaki (also known as Saad Muhammad Atif).

Up to $5 million is offered for information on AQAP founding member Ibrahim al-Banna (aka Abu Ayman al-Masri), and up to $4 million for Ibrahim Ahmed Mahmoud al-Qosi (aka Sheikh Khubayb al-Sudani, Mohammad Salah Ahmad).

RFJ will pay up to $10 million for information that leads to the disruption of financial networks controlled by Abbas Hamdan and Subayt bin Harith.

Formed in 2009 through a merger between al-Qaeda's Saudi and Yemeni branches, AQAP is considered one of the group's most dangerous franchises.

It was behind notable plots such as the 2009 "Underwear Bomber," who attempted to detonate explosives aboard a US-bound airliner, and a 2010 attempt to bomb cargo planes with explosives hidden in computer printers.

And it regularly demonstrates it has both the intent and capability to conduct attacks beyond its regional base.

Analysts warn that despite setbacks, the group continues to adapt from its Yemen base, leveraging fractured local governance and regional instability.

"In light of Iran's entry as a sponsor of al-Qaeda leaders," the current threat is particularly concerning, political analyst Faisal Ahmed told Al-Fassel, referring to reports of the Iranian regime harboring al-Qaeda leaders on its soil.

While US efforts have succeeded in weakening AQAP, recent intelligence indicates the group remains active, directing and inspiring attacks globally.

In a November statement released through its media channels, AQAP demonstrated its ongoing attempts to destabilize the region and revealed its continued focus on exploiting religious sensitivities to recruit new members.

Comprehensive strategy

RFJ's latest incentives build on decades of proven results in the fight against terrorism.

Since 1984, the program has distributed over $250 million to more than 125 individuals whose information has helped prevent attacks or neutralize terror networks.

Notable successes include a $2 million reward for intelligence that led to the capture of 1993 World Trade Center bombing mastermind Ramzi Yousef.

The active rewards for information on AQAP's financial networks highlight the US strategy of targeting both leadership and funding sources to combat the terrorist organization.

The State Department is encouraging individuals, particularly those in regions where AQAP operates, to submit information through RFJ's secure channels.

Tips can be provided anonymously through the official website www.rewardsforjustice.net, via Signal, Telegram or WhatsApp at +1-202-702-7843.