Ansar al-Sharia Tunisia’s Long Game: Dawa, Hisba and Jihad

Abstract

In May 2013, the most significant clashes since the fall of Zine El Abidine Ben Ali occurred between the Tunisian government and the country’s largest salafi jihadist organisation – Ansar al-Sharia Tunisia (AST). ICCT Visiting Fellow Daveed Gartenstein-Ross argues that AST’s future in the country is highly uncertain. Combining a research visit to Tunisia with more traditional research, Daveed Gartenstein-Ross analyses AST’s current strategy and potential future transition from missionary work to jihad. He takes into consideration the group’s leadership, outlook, structure, size, and international connections. Concluding, he provides recommendations for engagement in Tunisia and the prevention of a long-term security problem connected to AST.