Islam Times - Al Nusra Front faces dissensions from within

Islam Times - According to sources close to the matter Saudi preacher Sultan Issa Atwi separated entirely from Al Nusra after stating “legitimate reasons” for his decisions.

While it remains unclear why the radical cleric chose to sever all ties with the terror group it appears clear that tensions and ideological frictions have led to a split within the organization.

Atwi’s decision is very telling since the cleric is said to have been one of the pillar of the Front, a prominent leader of the terror group. Atwi has been most active in recruiting foreign fighters.

Dissensions in Al Nusra leadership and Atwi have rumoured to have plague the group, especially since Atwi wished to follow a different approach in Syria against the forces of President Bashar al Assad.

Atwi’s departure could signal further defections within the ranks of Al Nusra as the group is said to be struggling. Divisions remain towards the direction and the strategy the terror group should follow and whether or not a reconciliation with Daash would be a welcome development.