On March 7, 2012, Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) released a new audio message from its deputy commander, Sa'id Al-Shihri, addressing the Saudi public. His last message, it should be noted, was issued almost a year ago.
Al-Shihri begins his message by claiming that the "drums of war have been beaten," and that Iran is planning to wage war on Saudi Arabia. Al-Shihri points to the recent disturbances sparked by the Shi'ite population in the Eastern Province's Qatif region, including demonstrations and clashes with police, which he says mark the first stage of Iran's deployment of its minions in the kingdom. Iran, he says, aims to target the heart of Islam, and will therefore soon spread its assault to the Hijaz.
