Ansar al-Sharia (Egypt)

Ansar al-Sharia (Egypt) was a Salafist jihadist organization active in Egypt, primarily in the Sinai Peninsula, following the 2011 Egyptian Revolution. The name, translating to "Supporters of Islamic Law," reflects the group's aim to establish Sharia law in Egypt.

Formation and Activities:

The organization emerged amidst the security vacuum that followed the revolution. It comprised various smaller jihadist groups and individuals, many of whom had been released from prison during the period of instability. Ansar al-Sharia (Egypt) was not a monolithic entity, but rather an umbrella term encompassing diverse factions with varying degrees of coordination.

The group's activities centered on promoting its interpretation of Islamic law, often through charitable works and social programs. However, it also engaged in violence, particularly targeting Egyptian security forces in the Sinai Peninsula. The group claimed responsibility for or was implicated in numerous attacks, including bombings, assassinations, and ambushes. It also targeted infrastructure, such as gas pipelines to Israel.

Ideology:

Ansar al-Sharia (Egypt) adhered to a Salafist jihadist ideology. This ideology advocated for the implementation of Sharia law, the establishment of an Islamic state, and the use of violence as a legitimate means to achieve these goals. It viewed the Egyptian government as apostate and allied with Western powers, thus justifying attacks against it. The group drew inspiration from Al-Qaeda and other transnational jihadist movements.

Designation as a Terrorist Organization:

Due to its involvement in terrorist activities, Ansar al-Sharia (Egypt) was designated as a terrorist organization by the Egyptian government, the United States, and other countries. These designations led to increased pressure on the group, including arrests, asset freezes, and military operations.

Decline and Dissolution:

Increased security measures by the Egyptian government, particularly after the ouster of President Mohamed Morsi in 2013, significantly weakened Ansar al-Sharia (Egypt). Many of its members were killed, arrested, or fled to other regions. The group's operational capacity was severely diminished. Several constituent groups pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (ISIS) and became part of its Sinai Province (Wilayat Sinai). While the name "Ansar al-Sharia (Egypt)" faded from prominence, the underlying ideology and some of its former members continued to be associated with other jihadist groups operating in the region.