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 Al-Shabaab, one of Africa's most powerful Islamist militant groups, exercises a Taliban-like rule over millions in Somalia and poses a growing threat to stability in the Horn of Africa. Somalis risk reprisals or death if they resist or fail to comply with restrictions imposed by al-Shabaab on aspects of daily life such as dress, communication, sports, interpersonal relationships and prayer.

 Inside Al-Shabaab: The Secret History of Al-Qaeda's Most Powerful Ally recounts the rise, fall, and resurgence of this forgotten terrorist organization, providing an in-depth understanding of its ties to Al-Qaeda. Drawing on interviews with former Al-Shabaab operatives, including senior figures, military commanders, police officers, and foot soldiers, authors Haroon Ma'ruf and Dan Joseph reveal the motivations of those who dedicate their lives to the organization and its violent jihadist agenda. A wealth of sources, including U.S. diplomatic cables released by WikiLeaks, letters taken from Osama bin Laden's Pakistani hideout, court files from the prosecution of American al-Shabaab members, emails from Hillary Clinton's tenure as Secretary of State, and al-Shabaab's own statements and recruitment videos, serve as the basis for Maaruf and Joseph's investigation of the U.S. campaign against al-Shabaab and how the 2006 Ethiopian invasion of Somalia gave the group the popular support it needed to radicalize ordinary citizens and become a powerful movement. To purchase the book, click here