Despite the death of al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden in 2011, the Middle Eastern terrorist organization appears to be growing, according to data released by AFP.

Al-Qaida-affiliated militant jihadists have strongholds in Iraq, Syria and Yemen, while the group has also inspired the creation of independent militant groups operating in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Gaza, Sinai and parts of the Arabian Peninsula.

An estimated 17,000-20,000 fighters are engaged in jihadist activity in Iraq and Syria alone.