AQIM (al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb)

Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) is a militant Islamist organization operating mainly in North Africa. It originated from Islamist groups aiming to establish an Islamic state, and later aligned with al-Qaeda. AQIM engages in terrorist activities like attacks on governments, military, and civilians to advance its goals. It also funds itself through kidnapping and illicit trafficking. The group seeks to weaken governments in the region, influence political stability, and promote its interpretation of Islamic governance. AQIM's presence has contributed to ongoing security challenges in countries such as Algeria, Mali, Niger, and Libya.