Abyan – A group of former senior figures within Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) has released a strongly worded statement denouncing the organization’s current leadership, accusing it of straying from jihadist principles and committing grave injustices against its own members.

The statement, circulated via encrypted platforms and jihadist forums, alleges that AQAP’s command—under the leadership of Saad al-Awlaqi—has embraced “deviant paths” and engaged in “unjust purges” of veteran fighters. The dissidents claim that the group has become increasingly authoritarian, sidelining long-standing members and prioritizing personal loyalty over ideological commitment.

Security analysts say the statement reflects a widening schism within AQAP, which has suffered major setbacks in recent years, including the loss of key commanders and persistent counterterrorism pressure. “This is not just a leadership dispute—it’s an existential crisis,” said Dr. Farea al-Muslimi, a regional expert on extremist movements. “The fragmentation we’re seeing could spell the end of AQAP as a coherent force.”

The splinter leaders, whose identities remain undisclosed for security reasons, also criticized the group’s failure to maintain discipline and its alleged involvement in criminal activities that undermine its ideological credibility. They called on remaining loyalists to “reconsider their allegiance” and seek a return to “authentic jihadist values.”

AQAP has not officially responded to the accusations, but internal sources suggest growing unease among its ranks. The group has already faced defections, leadership losses—including the death of former emir Khaled Batarfi—and declining operational capacity.

Experts warn that the internal discord, combined with sustained military pressure and waning public support, could accelerate AQAP’s disintegration. “We may be witnessing the final unraveling of one of the most dangerous branches of Al-Qaeda,” said a Western counterterrorism official familiar with developments in Yemen.

The statement marks a rare public rupture within the group and underscores the challenges facing extremist organizations in maintaining unity amid ideological and strategic disputes.