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CAIRO, Egypt-Al-Qaida No. 2 Ayman al-Zawahri will soon answer the hundreds of questions submitted by journalists, militants and others about the terrorist network's future, its media wing announced Wednesday.A banner bearing the logo of the Al-Qaida's media arm, al-Sahab, appeared on Web sites linked to the organization that have carried its messages in the past."Soon the surprise," read the flashing banner, which showed a picture of the Egyptian-born militant dressed in white wearing a turban. "Soon by the grace of God, the open interview with Sheik Ayman Zawahri, first episode. "Al-Sahab announced in December that al-Zawahri would take questions from the public posted on Islamic militant Web sites and would respond "as soon as possible."More than 900 entries-many with multiple questions-were posted on the main Islamist Web site until the cutoff date of Jan. 16. After the deadline, the questions disappeared from that site.Self-proclaimed al-Qaida supporters appeared to be as much in the dark about the terror network's operations and intentions as Western analysts and intelligence agencies are.The questioners appeared uncertain whether al-Qaida's central leadership directly controls the multiple, small militant groups around the Mideast that work in its name, or whether those groups operate on their own.Some asked if al-Qaida have a long-term strategy, while others wanted advice about conducting holy war.As in the days of Noah....
