AFGHANISTAN

NAME: al Qaeda

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Established by Osama bin Laden in the late 1980s.

GOALS: Establish a pan-Islamic Caliphate throughout the world by working with allied Islamic extremist groups to overthrow regimes it deems "non-Islamic," and expelling Westerners and non-Muslims from Muslim countries.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Is suspected of involvement in the October 2000 bombing of the USS Cole in Aden, Yemen. Conducted the bombings in August 1998 of the U.S. embassies in Nairobi, Kenya, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, that killed at least 301 persons and injured more than 5,000 others. Claims to have shot down U.S. helicopters and killed U.S. servicemen in Somalia in 1993, and to have conducted three bombings that targeted U.S. troops in Aden, Yemen, in December 1992.

STRENGTH: May have several hundred to several thousand members.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Al Qaeda has a worldwide reach with cells in a number of countries, and benefits from its ties to Sunni extremist networks. Bin Laden and his top associates reside in Afghanistan, and the group maintains terrorist training camps there.

AFFILIATIONS: Serves as the umbrella organization for a worldwide network that includes many Sunni Islamic extremist groups, such as Egyptian Islamic Jihad, some members of al-Gama'at al-Islamiyya, the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, and the Harakat ul-Mujahidin.

COMMENTS: Bin Laden is the son of a wealthy Saudi family, and uses his inheritance to finance the group. Al Qaeda also operates moneymaking front organizations, solicits donations, and illicitly siphons funds from donations to Muslim charitable organizations.

ALGERIA

NAME: Armed Islamic Group (GIA)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1992.

GOALS: GIA aims to overthrow the secular Algerian regime and replace it with an Islamic state.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: Unknown, probably several hundred to several thousand.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Algeria.

AFFILIATIONS: Algerian expatriates and members of the Salafi Group for Call and Combat (GSPC) splinter group abroad, many of whom reside in Western Europe, provide financial and logistic support. In addition, the Algerian government has accused Iran and Sudan of supporting Algerian extremists.

COMMENTS: The GSPC splinter faction appears to have eclipsed the GIA since approximately 1998 and is currently assessed to be the most effective remaining armed group inside Algeria. A U.S. Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: The Salafist Group for Call and Combat (GSPC)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1996.

GOALS: Overthrow the Algerian government and impose fundamentalist Islamic theocracy.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Unknown.

STRENGTH: Unknown; suspected to be several hundred to several thousand.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Algeria.

AFFILIATIONS: Algerian expatriates and GSPC members living abroad.  The Algerian government has accused Iran and Sudan of supporting Algerian extremists.  The GSPC may also receive support from the Armed Islamic Group (GIA) network in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.  Some GSPC members in Europe are suspected of having ties with other North African extremists sympathetic to al Qaeda.

COMMENTS: GSPC is a splinter group of the GIA, and has gained popular support through its pledge not to attack civilians inside Algeria (although it has not kept the pledge).  It was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) on March 27, 2002.

CAMBODIA

NAME: Khmer Rouge/The Party of Democratic Kampuchea

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1970s

GOALS: Overthrow the Cambodian government.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None

STRENGTH: Fewer than 500, possibly no more than 100.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Outlying provinces in Cambodia, particularly in the northwest along the border with Thailand.

AFFILIATIONS: None.

COMMENTS: The group was a Communist insurgency that conducted a campaign of genocide, killing more than 1 million in the late 1970s. Disintegrated due to defections in the late 1990s.

CHILE

NAME: Manuel Rodriguez Patriotic Front (FPMR)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1983.

GOALS: Carry out missions of the Chilean Communist Party as its armed wing.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Attacks civilians and international targets, including U.S. businesses and Mormon churches. Bombed two restaurants in the U.S. in 1993.

STRENGTH: 50 to 100.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Chile, United States.

AFFILIATIONS: None.

COLOMBIA

NAME: National Liberation Army (ELN)—Colombia

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1965.

GOALS: Replacing the current government with a Marxist regime.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Conducted a campaign of mass kidnappings during the late 1990s, each of which involved at least one U.S. citizen.

STRENGTH: Approximately 3,000 to 6,000 armed combatants and an unknown number of active supporters.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Rural and mountainous areas of north, northeast, and southwest Colombia and Venezuela border regions.

AFFILIATIONS: Cuba provides some medical care and political consultation.

COMMENTS: Marxist insurgent group formed by urban intellectuals inspired by Fidel Castro and Che Guevara. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1964.

GOALS: Replacing the current government with a Marxist regime.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: In March 1999, the FARC executed three U.S. Indian rights activists in Venezuela after it kidnapped them in Colombia.

STRENGTH: Approximately 9,000 to 12,000 armed combatants and an unknown number of supporters, mostly in rural areas.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Colombia with some activities — extortion, kidnapping, logistics — in Venezuela, Panama, and Ecuador.

AFFILIATIONS: Cuba provides some medical care and political consultation.

COMMENTS: Established as the military wing of the Colombian Communist Party. FARC continues peace negotiations with the Pastrana administration, which has granted the group several concessions, including a demilitarized zone used as a venue for negotiations. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: United Self-Defense Forces/Group of Colombia (AUC-Autodefensas Unidas de Colombia)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1997.

GOALS: Claims its primary objective is to protect its sponsors from insurgents.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: The paramilitaries have not taken action against U.S. personnel.

STRENGTH: In early 2001, the government estimated there were 8,000 paramilitary fighters, including former military and insurgent personnel.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: AUC forces are strongest in the north and northwest: Antioquia, Cordoba, Sucre, Bolivar, Atlantico, and Magdalena Departments of Colombia.

AFFILIATIONS: None outside Colombia. The AUC is supported by economic elites, drug traffickers, and local communities lacking effective government security.

COMMENTS: The AUC — commonly referred to as autodefensas or paramilitaries — is an umbrella organization formed in April 1997 to consolidate most local and regional paramilitary groups each with the mission to protect economic interests and combat insurgents locally. Listed as "active" during 2000, it was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) on October 5, 2001.

EGYPT

NAME: Al-Jihad a.k.a. Egyptian Islamic Jihad, Jihad Group, Islamic Jihad

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Late 1970s.

GOALS: Overthrow the Egyptian government and replace it with an Islamic state; attack U.S. and Israeli interests in Egypt and abroad.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Car-bombing against official U.S. facilities.

STRENGTH: Unknown, suspected to be several hundred.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Mainly Cairo, but has a network outside Egypt, including Yemen, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Sudan, Lebanon, and the United Kingdom.

AFFILIATIONS: Close partner of Osama Bin Laden's al Qaeda; Iran. May get some funds via various Islamic non-governmental organizations, cover businesses, and criminal acts.

COMMENTS: The original Jihad was responsible for the 1981 assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat.

NAME: Al-Gama'a al-Islamiyya (Islamic Group, IG)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Late 1970s.

GOALS: The IG's primary goal is to overthrow the Egyptian government and replace it with an Islamic state, but certain group leaders also may be interested in attacking U.S. and Israeli interests.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: The IG has never specifically attacked a U.S. citizen or facility but has threatened U.S. interests.

STRENGTH: Unknown. At its peak, the IG probably commanded several thousand hard-core members and a like number of sympathizers. The 1998 cease-fire and security crackdowns following the attack on tourists in Luxor in 1997 probably have resulted in a substantial decrease in the group's numbers.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Operates mainly in the Al-Minya, Asyu't, Qina, and Sohaj Governorates of southern Egypt. Also appears to have support in Cairo, Alexandria, and other urban locations, particularly among unemployed graduates and students. Has a worldwide presence, including Sudan, the United Kingdom, Afghanistan, Austria, and Yemen.

AFFILIATIONS: Unknown. The Egyptian government believes that Iran, bin Laden, and Afghan militant groups support the organization. Also may obtain some funding through various Islamic non-governmental organizations.

COMMENTS: Al-Gama'a claims responsibility for the attempt in June 1995 to assassinate Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The group's spiritual leader, Shaykh Umar Abd al-Rahman, is incarcerated in the United States. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

GEORGIA

NAME: Zviadists

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1991.

GOALS: Extremist supporters of deceased former Georgian President Zviad Gamsakhurdia. Overthrow Gamsakhurdia's successor Eduard Shevardnadze's rule.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: Unknown.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Georgia, especially Mingrelia and Russia.

AFFILIATIONS: Unknown.

COMMENTS: Some now operate anti-Shevardnadze activities from Russia.

GREECE

NAME: Revolutionary Nuclei (RN) a.k.a. Revolutionary Cells

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1995.

GOALS: Believed to be the successor group to the Revolutionary People’s Struggle (ELA), RN is a leftist group with an anti-establishment, anti-U.S., anti-NATO and anti-EU agenda.  The ELA, which sought to oppose “imperialist domination, exploitation, and oppression,” has not been active since 1995.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE:  In November 2000, RN bombed the Citigroup offices in Athens and the studio of a Greek/American sculptor.  In December 1999, the group detonated explosives outside the Athens offices of Texaco.

STRENGTH: Unknown.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Mainly the Athens metropolitan area in Greece.

AFFILIATIONS: Unknown.

COMMENTS: RN was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) on March 27, 2002.

NAME: Revolutionary Organization 17 November (17 November)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1975.

GOALS: A radical leftist group, 17 November is described as Anti-Greek establishment, anti-United States, anti-Turkey, anti-NATO, and committed to the ouster of U.S. bases, removal of Turkish military presence from Cyprus, and severing of Greece's ties to NATO and the European Union (EU).

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Initial attacks were assassinations of senior U.S. officials and Greek public figures.

STRENGTH: Unknown, but presumed to be small.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Athens, Greece.

AFFILIATIONS: Unknown.

COMMENTS: Added bombings in 1980s. Since 1990, has expanded targets to include EU facilities and foreign firms investing in Greece, and has added improvised rocket attacks to its methods. Most recent attack claimed was the murder in June 2000 of British Defense Attaché Stephen Saunders. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Revolutionary People's Struggle (ELA)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1971.

GOALS: To oppose "imperialist domination, exploitation, and oppression."

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Since 1974, has conducted bombings against Greek government and economic targets, as well as U.S. military and business facilities.

STRENGTH: Unknown.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Greece.

AFFILIATIONS: Received weapons and other assistance from international terrorist Carlos during 1980s. Currently no known foreign sponsors. Greek police believe they have established links between ELA and Revolutionary Organization 17 November.

COMMENTS: An extreme leftist group, the ELA is self-described as revolutionary, anti-capitalist, and anti-imperialist. Strongly anti-U.S., and seeks the removal of U.S. military forces from Greece. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

HONDURAS

NAME: Morzanist Patriotic Front (FPM)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Late 1980s

GOALS: Protest U.S. intervention in Honduran economic and political affairs.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Mainly operates attacks on U.S. military personnel in Honduras. Bus bombing in 1990 wounded seven U.S. servicemen, and one in 1989 wounded three servicemen. Attacked U.S. convoy in 1989. Grenade attack in La Ceiba in 1989 wounded seven U.S. soldiers. Claimed bombing of Peace Corps office in 1988.

STRENGTH: Unknown, probably relatively small.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Honduras

AFFILIATIONS: Had ties to former government of Nicaragua and possibly Cuba.

INDIA

NAME: Al-Ummah

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1992.

GOALS: Unknown.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: Unknown.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Southern India.

AFFILIATIONS: Unknown.

COMMENTS: Radical Indian Muslim group believed responsible for the Coimbatore bombings in Southern India in 1998.

IRAQ

NAME: Abu Nidal organization (ANO) a.k.a. Fatah Revolutionary Council, Arab Revolutionary Brigades, Black September, and Revolutionary Organization of Socialist Muslims.

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Split from the PLO in 1974.

GOALS: Establishment of a Palestinian State.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Targets include the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Israel, moderate Palestinians, the PLO, and various Arab countries. Has not attacked Western targets since the late 1980s.

STRENGTH: A few hundred plus limited overseas support structure.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Its leader, Sabri Al-Banna, relocated to Iraq in December 1998, where the group maintains a presence. Has an operational presence in Lebanon, including in several Palestinian refugee camps. Authorities shut down the ANO's operations in Libya and Egypt in 1999. Has demonstrated ability to operate over wide area, including the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. Has carried out terrorist attacks in 20 countries, killing or injuring almost 900 persons.

AFFILIATIONS: Has received considerable support, including safe haven, training, logistic assistance, and financial aid from Iraq, Libya, and Syria (until 1987), in addition to close support for selected operations.

COMMENTS: Financial problems and internal disorganization have reduced the group's activities and capabilities. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Mujahedin-e Khalq Organization (MEK or MKO) a.k.a. The National Liberation Army of Iran (NLA, the militant wing of the MEK), the People's Mujahidin of Iran (PMOI), National Council of Resistance (NCR), Muslim Iranian Student's Society (front organization used to garner financial support).

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1960s.

GOALS: The MEK continues to conduct a worldwide campaign against the Iranian government, which stresses propaganda and occasionally uses terrorist violence.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: During the 1970s, the MEK staged terrorist attacks inside Iran and killed several U.S. military personnel and civilians working on defense projects in Tehran. Supported the takeover in 1979 of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran.

STRENGTH: Several thousand fighters based in Iraq with an extensive overseas support structure. Most of the fighters are organized in the MEK's National Liberation Army (NLA).

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: In the 1980s, the MEK's leaders were forced by Iranian security forces to flee to France. Most resettled in Iraq by 1987. In the mid-1980s, the group did not mount terrorist operations in Iran at a level similar to its activities in the 1970s. In the 1990s, however, the MEK claimed credit for an increasing number of operations in Iran.

AFFILIATIONS: Beyond support from Iraq, the MEK uses front organizations to solicit contributions from expatriate Iranian communities.

COMMENTS: Formed by the college-educated children of Iranian merchants, the MEK sought to counter what it perceived as excessive Western influence in the Shah's regime. Following a philosophy that mixes Marxism and Islam, the MEK has developed into the largest and most active armed Iranian dissident group. Its history is studded with anti-Western activity, and, most recently, attacks on the interests of the clerical regime in Iran and abroad. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Palestine Liberation Front (PLF)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Broke away from the PFLP-GC in mid-1970s.

GOALS: Creation of a Palestinian state.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: The Abu Abbas-led faction was responsible for the attack in 1985 on the cruise ship Achille Lauro and the murder of U.S. citizen Leon Klinghoffer.

STRENGTH: Unknown.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Based in Tunisia until Achille Lauro attack, it is now based in Iraq.

AFFILIATIONS: Receives support mainly from Iraq. Has received support from Libya in the past.

COMMENTS: After its initial break with the PFLP-GC, split again into pro-PLO, pro-Syrian, and pro-Libyan factions. Pro-PLO faction is led by Muhammad Abbas (Abu Abbas), who became member of PLO Executive Committee in 1984 but left it in 1991. A warrant for Abu Abbas's arrest is outstanding in Italy. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

ISRAEL

NAME: Kach and Kahane Chai

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Both organizations were declared to be terrorist organizations in March 1994 by the Israeli Cabinet under the 1948 Terrorism Law.

GOALS: Stated goal is to restore the biblical state of Israel.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: Unknown.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Israel and West Bank settlements, particularly Qiryat Arba' in Hebron.

AFFILIATIONS: Receives support from sympathizers in the United States and Europe.

COMMENTS: Kach was founded by radical Israeli-American rabbi Meir Kahane, while its offshoot Kahane Chai,(which means "Kahane Lives") was founded by Meir Kahane's son Binyamin following his father's assassination in the United States. They have threatened to attack Arabs, Palestinians, and Israeli government officials. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

JAPAN

NAME: Aum Supreme Truth (Aum) a.k.a. Aum Shinrikyo, Aleph

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1987.

GOALS: To take over Japan and then the world.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: The Aum's current membership is estimated at 1,500 to 2,000 persons. At the time of the 1995 Tokyo subway attack, the group claimed to have 9,000 members in Japan and up to 40,000 worldwide.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: The Aum's principal membership is located only in Japan, but a residual branch comprising an unknown number of followers has surfaced in Russia.

AFFILIATIONS: None.

COMMENTS: A cult established by Shoko Asahara, the Aum is responsible for the March 20, 1995 sarin nerve gas attacks on several Tokyo subway trains that killed 12 persons and injured up to 6,000. In 2000, Fumihiro Joyu took control of the Aum following his three-year jail sentence for perjury. Joyu was previously the group's spokesman and Russia Branch leader. Under Joyu's leadership the Aum changed its name to Aleph and claims to have rejected the violent and apocalyptic teachings of its founde r. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Chukaku-Ha (Nucleus or Middle Core Faction)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1957.

GOALS: Protest Japan's imperial system, Western imperialism, and events such as the Gulf War and the expansion of Tokyo's Narita Airport.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: 3,500.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Japan.

AFFILIATIONS: None.

COMMENTS: Largest domestic militant group; has small covert action wing called Kansai Revolutionary Army.

NAME: Japanese Red Army (JRA) a.k.a. Anti-Imperialist International Brigade (AIIB)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Around 1970.

GOALS: To overthrow the Japanese government and monarchy and to help foment world revolution.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: In 1972 the JRA attempted a takeover of the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur. In April 1988, JRA operative Yu Kikumura was arrested with explosives on the New Jersey Turnpike, apparently planning an attack to coincide with the bombing of a USO club in Naples, a suspected JRA operation that killed five, including a U.S. servicewoman.

STRENGTH: About six hard-core members; undetermined number of sympathizers.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: The JRA has carried out a series of attacks around the world. Location unknown, but possibly traveling in Asia or Syrian-controlled areas of Lebanon.

AFFILIATIONS: Unknown. Has history of close relations with Palestinian terrorist groups based and operating outside Japan. May control or at least have ties to Anti-Imperialist International Brigade (AIIB); also may have links to Antiwar Democratic Front — an overt leftist political organization — inside Japan.

COMMENTS: The JRA is a break away from the Japanese Communist League-Red Army Faction. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) in 2000, it was removed from the FTO list on October 5, 2001.

LEBANON

NAME: ‘Asbat al-Ansar (The Partisans’ League)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Early 1990s.

GOALS: Overthrow the Lebanese government and thwart anti-Islamic influences in Lebanon.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: About 300 fighters.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Primary base of operations is the ‘Ayn al-Hilwah Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon.

AFFILIATIONS: Overseas Sunni extremist networks and Osama bin Laden’s al Qaeda.

COMMENTS: A Lebanon-based group composed mainly of Palestinians, Asbat al-Ansar adheres to an extremist interpretation of Islam and justifies the use of violence against civilian targets.  The group raised its profile in 2000 with a rocket-propelled grenade attack on the Russian Embassy in Beirut.  It was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) on March 27, 2002.

NAME: Hezbollah (Party of God) a.k.a. Islamic Jihad, Revolutionary Justice Organization, Organization of the Oppressed on Earth, and Islamic Jihad for the Liberation of Palestine

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Unknown.

GOALS: Increasing its political power in Lebanon, and opposing Israel and the Middle East peace negotiations.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Known or suspected to have been involved in numerous anti-U.S. terrorist attacks, including the suicide truck bombing of the U.S. embassy and U.S. Marine barracks in Beirut in October 1983, and the U.S. embassy annex in Beirut in September 1984.

STRENGTH: Several thousand supporters and a few hundred terrorist operatives.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Operates in the Bekaa Valley, the southern suburbs of Beirut, and southern Lebanon. Has established cells in Europe, Africa, South America, North America, and Asia.

AFFILIATIONS: Receives substantial amounts of financial, training, weapons, explosives, political, diplomatic, and organizational aid from Iran and Syria.

COMMENTS: A radical Shia organization founded in Lebanon. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NORTHERN IRELAND

NAME: Continuity Irish Republican Army (CIRA) a.k.a. Continuity Army Council

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1994.

GOALS: The reunification of Ireland and to forcing British troops from Northern Ireland.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: Fewer than 50 hard-core activists.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Northern Ireland, Irish Republic.

AFFILIATIONS: Suspected of receiving funds and arms from sympathizers in the United States. May have acquired arms and materiel from the Balkans in cooperation with the Real IRA.

COMMENTS: A radical terrorist splinter group formed as the clandestine armed wing of the political organization Republican Sinn Fein (RSF). RSF formed after the Irish Republican Army announced a cease-fire in September 1994. Targets include British military and Northern Ireland security targets and Northern Ireland Loyalist paramilitary groups. Also has launched bomb attacks against civilian targets in Northern Ireland. Does not have an established presence or capability to launch attacks on the U.K. mainland. NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), but listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Irish Republican Army (IRA) a.k.a. Provisional Irish Republican Army (PIRA), the Provos

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1969.

GOALS: Removing British forces from Northern Ireland and unifying Ireland.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: Several hundred members, plus several thousand sympathizers.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Northern Ireland, Irish Republic, Great Britain, Europe.

AFFILIATIONS: Has, in the past, received aid from a variety of groups and countries and considerable training and arms from Libya and the PLO. Is suspected of receiving funds, arms, and other terrorist-related materiel from sympathizers in the United States. Similarities in operations suggest links to the ETA.

COMMENTS: Terrorist group formed as the clandestine armed wing of Sinn Fein, a legal political movement. Has a Marxist orientation. Organized into small, tightly knit cells under the leadership of the Army Council. Despite of some members to the dissident splinter groups, its numbers have remained steady. The IRA has been observing a cease-fire since July 1997 and previously observed a cease-fire from September 1994 to February 1996. NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), but listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Loyalist Volunteer Force (LVF)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1996.

GOALS: Prevent a political settlement with Irish nationalists in Northern Ireland by attacking Catholic politicians, civilians, and Protestant politicians who endorse the Northern Ireland peace process.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: Approximately 150.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Ireland, Northern Ireland.

AFFILIATIONS: None.

COMMENTS: Terrorist group formed as a faction of the mainstream loyalist Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF), the LVF did not emerge publicly until February 1997. Composed largely of UVF hardliners. Has been observing a cease-fire since May 1998. The LVF decommissioned a small but significant amount of weapons in December 1998, but it has not repeated this gesture, and in fact threatened in 2000 to resume killing Catholics. In 2000, the LVF also engaged in a brief but violent feud with other loyalists in which several individuals were killed. NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) but listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Orange Volunteers (OV)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Late 1990s.

GOALS: Prevent a political settlement with Irish nationalists.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: Up to 20 hard-core members, some of whom are experienced in terrorist tactics and bomb making.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Northern Ireland.

AFFILIATIONS: None.

COMMENTS: Comprised largely of disgruntled loyalist hardliners who split from groups observing the cease-fire. The OV declared a cease-fire in September 2000, but the group maintains the ability to conduct bombings, arson, beatings, and possibly robberies. NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) but listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Real IRA (RIRA) a.k.a. True IRA

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: February-March 1998.

GOALS: Removing British forces from Northern Ireland and unifying Ireland.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: 150 to 200.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Northern Ireland, Irish Republic, Great Britain.

AFFILIATIONS: Possible limited support from IRA hardliners dissatisfied with the IRA cease-fire and other republican sympathizers. Suspected of receiving funds from sympathizers in the United States. RIRA also is thought to have purchased sophisticated weapons from the Balkans, according to press reports.

COMMENTS: The clandestine armed wing of the 32-County Sovereignty Movement, a "political pressure group" opposed to Sinn Fein's adoption of the Mitchell principles of democracy and nonviolence 1999 additions to the Irish Constitution, which lay claim to Northern Ireland. Listed as "active" during 2000, it was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) on October 5, 2001.

NAME: Red Hand Defenders (RHD)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Late 1990s.

GOALS: Prevent a political settlement with Irish nationalists by attacking Catholic civilian interests in Northern Ireland.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: Up to 20 members.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Northern Ireland.

AFFILIATIONS: None.

COMMENTS: Extremist terrorist group composed largely of Protestant hardliners from other loyalist groups observing a cease-fire. RHD was quiet in 2000, following a damaging crackdown by security forces in late 1999. In prior years, the group has carried out numerous pipe bombings and arson attacks against "soft" civilian targets, such as homes, churches, and private businesses, to cause outrage in the republican community and to provoke IRA retaliation. NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) but listed as "active" during 2000.

OCCUPIED TERRITORIES

NAME: Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 2000

GOALS: Drive the Israeli military and people from the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and Jerusalem and establish a Palestinian state.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: At least five U.S. citizens have been killed in attacks, but probably not because of their citizenship.  The group mainly targets Israeli military personnel and civilians.

STRENGTH: Unknown.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Mainly in the West Bank, but has also claimed responsibility for attacks inside Israel and the Gaza Strip.

AFFILIATIONS: Unknown.

COMMENTS: Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade is composed of cells of Fatah-affiliated activists that emerged with the onset of the intifadah in 2000.  In January 2002, an al-Aqsa member became the first female suicide bomber in the intifadah.  The group was designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) on March 27, 2002. 

NAME: Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1969.

GOALS: Achieve Palestinian national goals through revolution of the masses.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: 500.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Syria, Lebanon, and the Israeli-occupied territories.

AFFILIATIONS: One of the two factions joined with other rejectionist groups to form the Alliances of Palestinian Forces (APF), but broke it off. Has made limited moves toward merging with the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) since the mid-1990s. Receives limited financial and military aid from Syria.

COMMENTS: Marxist-Leninist organization founded when it split from the PFLP. Opposed the Israel-PLO peace agreement.

NAME: HAMAS (Islamic Resistance Movement)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1987.

GOALS: Establishing an Islamic Palestinian state in place of Israel.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Unknown.

STRENGTH: Unknown number of hard-core members; tens of thousands of supporters and sympathizers.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Primarily the occupied territories, Israel. In August 1999, Jordanian authorities closed the group's Political Bureau offices in Amman, arrested its leaders, and prohibited the group from operating on Jordanian territory.

AFFILIATIONS: Receives funding from Palestinian expatriates, Iran, and private benefactors in Saudi Arabia and other moderate Arab states. Some fundraising and propaganda activities take place in Western Europe and North America.

COMMENTS: Formed as an outgrowth of the Palestinian branch of the Muslim Brotherhood. Various HAMAS elements have used both political and violent means, including terrorism. Loosely structured, with some elements working clandestinely and others working openly through mosques and social service institutions to recruit members, raise money, organize activities, and distribute propaganda. Also has engaged in peaceful political activity, such as running candidates in West Bank Chamber of Commerce elections. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: The Palestine Islamic Jihad (PIJ)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1970s.

GOALS: The creation of an Islamic Palestinian state and the destruction of Israel through holy war.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Because of its strong support for Israel, the United States has been identified as an enemy of the PIJ, but the group has not specifically conducted attacks against U.S. interests in the past. In July 2000, however, publicly threatened to attack U.S. interests if the U.S. Embassy is moved from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

STRENGTH: Unknown.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Primarily Israel and the occupied territories and other parts of the Middle East, including Jordan and Lebanon. Headquartered in Syria.

AFFILIATIONS: Receives financial assistance from Iran and limited logistic assistance from Syria.

COMMENTS: Originated among militant Palestinians in the Gaza Strip during the 1970s. Also opposes moderate Arab governments that it believes have been tainted by Western secularism. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Harakat ul-Ansar (HUA)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: October 1993.

GOALS: Oppose Indian troops in Kashmir.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: U.S. nationals were kidnapped in New Delhi in 1994 in effort to secure the release of imprisoned HUA leader Maulana Masood Azhar.

STRENGTH: Several thousand armed supporters

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Based in Pakistan, but operates mainly in Kashmir.

AFFILIATIONS: Collects funds from supporters in Saudi Arabia and other Gulf and Islamic states, and from Pakistanis and Kashmiris. Has been linked to the Kashmiri militant group Al-Faran. See "Army of Muhammad (JEM)."

NAME: Harakat ul-Mujahidin (HUM)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Early 1990s.

GOALS: Unite Kashmir with Pakistan.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None, although new leader Farooq Kashmiri. Khalil, who took control of HUM in February 2000, has been linked to Bin Ladin and signed his fatwah in February 1998 calling for attacks on U.S. and Western interests.

STRENGTH: Several thousand armed supporters.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Based in Muzaffarabad, Rawalpindi, and several other towns in Pakistan and Afghanistan, but members conduct insurgent and terrorist activities primarily in Kashmir. The HUM trains its militants in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

AFFILIATIONS: Collects donations from Saudi Arabia and other Gulf and Islamic states, and from Pakistanis and Kashmiris. The sources and amount of HUM's military funding are unknown. Leadership has been linked to Osama Bin Ladin.

COMMENTS: Formerly known as the Harakat al-Ansar, the HUM is an Islamic militant group based in Pakistan that operates primarily in Kashmir. Supporters are mostly Pakistanis and Kashmiris, and also include Afghans and Arab veterans of the Afghan war. Uses light and heavy machineguns, assault rifles, mortars, explosives, and rockets. HUM lost some of its membership in defections to the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM). Continues to operate terrorist training camps in eastern Afghanistan. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM) (Army of Mohammed)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: February, 2000.

GOALS: Unite Kashmir with Pakistan.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None. JEM's leader, Maulana Masood Azhar, is a former leader of Harakat ul-Ansar (HUA), and was imprisoned until 1999 when he was released in a hostage exchange. U.S. nationals were kidnapped in New Delhi in 1994 in an earlier HUA effort to secure his release.

STRENGTH: Several hundred armed supporters.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Based in Peshawar and Muzaffarabad, but members conduct terrorist activities primarily in Kashmir. The JEM maintains training camps in Afghanistan.

AFFILIATIONS: Most of the JEM's cadre and material resources have been drawn from the militant groups Harakat ul-Jihad al-Islami (HUJI) and the Harakat ul-Mujahidin (HUM). The JEM has close ties to Afghan Arabs and the Taliban. Osama Bin Laden is suspected of giving funding to the JEM.

COMMENTS: The JEM is an Islamist group based in Pakistan that has rapidly expanded in size and capability. Supporters are mostly Pakistanis and Kashmiris, and also include Afghans and Arab veterans of the Afghan war. Uses light and heavy machineguns, assault rifles, mortars, improvised explosive devices, and rocket grenades. NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), but listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LT) (Army of the Righteous)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1989.

GOALS: Unite Kashmir with Pakistan.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: Several hundred members.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Based in Muridke (near Lahore) and Muzaffarabad. The LT trains its militants in mobile training camps across Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Afghanistan.

AFFILIATIONS: Collects donations from the Pakistani community in the Persian Gulf and United Kingdom, Islamic NGOs, and Pakistani and Kashmiri businessmen. The amount of LT funding is unknown. The LT maintains ties to religious/military groups around the world, ranging from the Philippines to the Middle East and Chechnya through the MDI fraternal network.

COMMENTS: The LT is the armed wing of the Pakistan-based religious organization, Markaz-ud-Dawa-wal-Irshad (MDI) — a Sunni anti-U.S. missionary organization. One of the three largest and best-trained groups fighting in Kashmir against India, it is not connected to a political party. The group has conducted a number of operations against Indian troops and civilian targets in Kashmir since 1993. Almost all LT cadres are foreigners — mostly Pakistanis from seminaries across the country and Afghan veterans of the Afghan wars. Uses assault rifles, light and heavy machineguns, mortars, explosives, and rocket propelled grenades. NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) but listed as "active" during 2000.

PERU

NAME: Sendero Luminoso (Shining Path)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Late 1960s.

GOALS: Destroy existing Peruvian institutions and replace them with a Communist peasant revolutionary regime. Oppose any influence by foreign governments, as well as by other Latin American guerrilla groups, especially the Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement (MRTA).

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Attempted to car-bomb the U.S. embassy in Peru in 1990.

STRENGTH: 100-200 armed militants.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Peru, with most activity in rural areas.

AFFILIATIONS: None.

COMMENTS: In the 1980s, SL became one of the most ruthless terrorist groups in the Western Hemisphere — approximately 30,000 persons have died since SL took up arms in 1980. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement (MRTA)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1983.

GOALS: Establish a Marxist regime and rid Peru of all imperialist elements (primarily U.S. and Japanese influence).

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: No more than 100.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Peru with supporters throughout Latin America and Western Europe. Controls no territory.

AFFILIATIONS: None.

COMMENTS: Previously conducted bombings, kidnappings, ambushes, and assassinations, but recent activity has fallen drastically. Peru's counter-terrorist program has diminished the group's ability to carry out terrorist attacks. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) in 2000, it was removed from the FTO list on October 5, 2001.

PHILLIPPINES

NAME: Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1991.

GOALS: Promote an independent Islamic state in western Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago, areas in the southern Philippines heavily populated by Muslims.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Kidnapped more than 30 foreigners, including a U.S. citizen, in 2000.

STRENGTH: 200 core fighters and more than 2,000 supporters.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Mainly southern Philippines with members occasionally traveling to Manila. Operated in Malaysia in 2000.

AFFILIATIONS: Probably receives support from Islamic extremists in the Middle East and South Asia. Some have ties to Mujahidin in Afghanistan.

COMMENTS: Smallest and most radical of the Islamic separatist groups operating in the southern Philippines. The group split from the Moro National Liberation Front in 1991. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Alex Boncayao Brigade (ABB)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Mid-1980s.

GOALS: [A breakaway urban hit squad of the Communist Party of the Philippines New People's Army.]

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Suspected involved in the murder in 1989 of U.S. Army Col. James Rowe in the Philippines.

STRENGTH: 500.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Manila and central Philippines.

AFFILIATIONS: Formed an alliance with the Revolutionary Proletarian Army in 1997.

COMMENTS: Breakaway urban hit squad of the Communist Party of the Philippines New People's Army. NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), but listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: New People's Army (NPA)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1969.

GOALS: Overthrow the government of the Philippines through protracted guerrilla warfare.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Opposes any U.S. military presence in the Philippines and attacked U.S. military interests before the U.S. base closures in 1992. Press reports in 1999 indicated that the NPA would target U.S. troops participating in joint military exercises under the Visiting Forces Agreement and U.S. embassy personnel.

STRENGTH: 6,000-8,000.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Rural Luzon, Visayas, and parts of Mindanao. Has cells in Manila and other metropolitan centers.

AFFILIATIONS: Derives most of its funding from contributions of supporters and so-called revolutionary taxes extorted from local businesses.

COMMENTS: The military wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP). Although primarily a rural-based guerrilla group, the NPA has an active urban infrastructure to conduct terrorism and uses city-based assassination squads called sparrow units. NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), but listed as "active" during 2000.

RWANDA

NAME: Army for the Liberation of Rwanda (ALIR), a.k.a. Interahamwe, Former Armed Forces (ex-FAR)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1994.

GOALS: Topple Rwanda's Tutsi-dominated government, reinstitute Hutu control, and, possibly, complete the genocide begun in 1994.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: In 1996, a message — allegedly from the ALIR — threatened to kill the U.S. Ambassador to Rwanda and other U.S. citizens. In 1999, ALIR guerrillas critical of alleged U.S.-U.K. support for the Rwandan regime kidnapped and killed eight foreign tourists, including two U.S. citizens, at the Congo-Uganda border.

STRENGTH: Several thousand.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Mostly Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, but a few may operate in Burundi.

AFFILIATIONS: In the Congolese war, the ALIR is allied with Kinshasa against the Rwandan invaders. From the Rwandan invasion of 1998 until his death in early 2001, the Laurent Kabila regime in the Democratic Republic of the Congo provided the ALIR with training, arms, and supplies.

COMMENTS: The FAR was the army of the Rwandan Hutu regime that carried out the genocide of 500,000 or more Tutsis and regime opponents in 1994. The Interahamwe was the civilian militia force that carried out much of the killing. The groups merged after they were forced from Rwanda into the Democratic Republic of the Congo (then-Zaire) in 1994. They are now often known as the Army for the Liberation of Rwanda (ALIR), which is the armed branch of the PALIR or Party for the Liberation of Rwanda. NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), but listed as "active" during 2000.

SIERRA LEONE

NAME: Revolutionary United Front (RUF)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Unknown.

GOALS: Topple the current government of Sierra Leone and retain control of the lucrative diamond-producing regions of the country.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None directly, but held hundreds of UN peacekeepers hostage in 2000.

STRENGTH: Several thousand fighters and possibly a similar number of supporters and sympathizers.

OPERATIONA LOCATIONS: Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea.

AFFILIATIONS: President Charles Taylor of Liberia reportedly provides support and leadership to the RUF. The United Nations has identified Libya, Gambia, and Burkina Faso as conduits for weapons and other materiel for the RUF.

COMMENTS: NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), but listed as "active" during 2000.

SOUTH AFRICA

NAME: Qibla and People Against Gangsterism and Drugs (PAGAD)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: Qibla: 1980s; PAGAD: 1996.

GOALS: Qibla: Establish an Islamic state in South Africa; PAGAD: Fight drug lords in Cape Town. The two groups share anti-Western stance as well as some members and leadership, and promote greater political voice for South African Muslims.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Qibla protests U.S. policies toward the Muslim world through its radio station 786. PAGAD is suspected of conducting hundreds of bombings and other violent actions.

STRENGTH: Qibla: 250; PAGAD: at least 50 gunmen, and larger than Qibla.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Cape Town, South Africa.

AFFILIATIONS: Probably have ties to Islamic extremists in the Middle East.

COMMENTS: Often uses names such as Muslims Against Global Oppression (MAGO) and Muslims Against Illegitimate Leaders (MAIL) when launching anti-Western campaigns. NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), but listed as "active" during 2000.

SPAIN

NAME: Basque Fatherland and Liberty (ETA), a.k.a. Euzkadi Ta Askatasuna

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1959.

GOALS: Esblish an independent homeland based on Marxist principles in the northern Spanish provinces of Vizcaya, Guipuzcoa, Alava, and Navarra and the southwestern French departments of Labourd, Basse-Navarra, and Soule.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: Unknown; may have hundreds of members, plus supporters.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Operates primarily in the Basque autonomous regions of northern Spain and southwestern France, but also has bombed Spanish and French interests elsewhere.

AFFILIATIONS: Has received training at various times in the past in Libya, Lebanon, and Nicaragua. Some ETA members allegedly have received sanctuary in Cuba while others reside in South America. Also appears to have ties to the Irish Republican Army through the two groups' legal political wings.

COMMENTS: Primarily bombings and assassinations of Spanish government officials, especially security and military forces, politicians, and judicial figures. ETA finances its activities through kidnappings, robberies, and extortion. The group has killed more than 800 persons since it began lethal attacks in the early 1960s. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: First of October Antifascist Resistance Group (GRAPO), Grupo de Resistencia Anti-Fascista Premero de Octubre.

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1975.

GOALS: Overthrow of the Spanish government and replace it with a Marxist-Leninist regime.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: GRAPO is vehemently anti-U.S., calls for the removal of all U.S. military forces from Spanish territory, and has conducted and attempted several attacks against U.S. targets since 1977.

STRENGTH: Unknown but likely fewer than a dozen hard-core activists. Numerous GRAPO members also currently are in Spanish prisons.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Spain.

AFFILIATIONS: None.

COMMENTS: Armed wing of the illegal Communist Party of Spain of the Franco era. Advocating the NOT a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), but listed as "active" during 2000.

SRI LANKA

NAME: Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) Other known front organizations: World Tamil Association (WTA), World Tamil Movement (WTM), the Federation of Associations of Canadian Tamils (FACT), the Ellalan Force, the Sangilian Force.

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1976.

GOALS: Establish an independent Tamil state.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: 8,000 to 10,000 armed combatants in Sri Lanka, with a core of trained fighters of approximately 3,000 to 6,000. Has significant overseas support structure for fundraising, weapons procurement, and propaganda activities.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Sri Lanka.

AFFILIATIONS: Lobbies foreign governments and the UN. Uses its international contacts to procure weapons, communications, and any other equipment and supplies it needs. Exploits large Tamil communities in North America, Europe, and Asia to obtain funds and supplies for its fighters in Sri Lanka.

COMMENTS: A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1967.

GOALS: Oppose current negotiations with Israel. Promote national unity and the reinvigoration of the PLO.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: 800.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and the occupied territories.

AFFILIATIONS: Receives safe haven and some logistic assistance from Syria.

COMMENTS: Joined the Alliance of Palestinian Forces (APF) to and suspended participation in the PLO. Broke away from the APF, along with the DFLP, in 1996 over ideological differences. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine-General Command (PFLP-GC)

GOALS: Oppose Arafat's PLO.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: Several hundred.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Europe, Middle East, southern Lebanon, Israel, West Bank, and Gaza Strip. Headquartered in Damascus with bases in Lebanon.

AFFILIATIONS: Receives logistic and military support from Syria and financial support from Iran.

COMMENTS: Known for cross-border terrorist attacks into Israel using unusual means. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

TURKEY

NAME: Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK)

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1974.

GOALS: Establish an independent Kurdish state in southeastern Turkey, where the population is predominantly Kurdish. Improve rights for Kurds in Turkey.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: None.

STRENGTH: 4,000 to 5,000, with thousands of sympathizers in Turkey and Europe.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Turkey, Europe, and the Middle East.

AFFILIATIONS: Has received safe haven and modest aid from Syria, Iraq, and Iran. The Syrian government expelled PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan and known elements of the group from its territory in October 1998.

COMMENTS: In the early 1990s, the PKK moved beyond rural-based insurgent activities to include urban terrorism. The group now claims it would use only political means to achieve its goals. A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.

NAME: Revolutionary People's Liberation Party/Front (DHKP/C) a.k.a. Devrimci Sol (Revolutionary Left), Dev Sol

DATE STARTED/FIRST ACTIVE: 1978.

GOALS: Uphold Marxist ideology and demonstrate its anti-U.S. and anti-NATO stance.

MAIN ANTI-U.S. ACTIVITIES TO DATE: Assassinated two U.S. military contractors and wounded a U.S. Air Force officer to protest the Gulf war. Launched rockets at U.S. Consulate in Istanbul in 1992. Turkish authorities thwarted DHKP/C attempt in June 1999 to fire light antitank weapon at U.S. Consulate in Istanbul.

STRENGTH: Unknown.

OPERATIONAL LOCATIONS: Turkey, primarily in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Adana. Raises funds in Western Europe.

AFFILIATIONS: Unknown.

COMMENTS: A Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) listed as "active" during 2000.