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<p>We are aware of reports suggesting the presence of Islamic State of Iraq and the
Levant (ISIL)-affiliated groups in Yemen. We do not believe that this is indicative
of an organised, structured or cohesive ISIL presence in Yemen. Also, it does not
indicate operational linkages between al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and
ISIL. AQAP has been a vocal critic of ISIL’s rise. It recently issued a public statement
condemning ISIL’s ‘Caliphate’ in Syria and Iraq, as well as criticising its use of
brutal tactics. The civil war in Syria has attracted some Yemeni foreign fighters
who may subsequently return to the region. We do not believe that this is indicative
of ISIL presence in Yemen.</p>
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