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

TERRORIST GROUP PROFILES

MILNET

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

From: Patterns of Global Terrorism. United States Department of State Publication 10321

Description

Split from the PFLP in 1968, claiming that it wanted to focus more on fighting and less on politics. Violently opposed to Arafat's PLO. Led by Ahmed Jabril, a former captain in the Syrian Army. Closely allied with, supported by, and probably directed by Syria.

Activities

Claims to have specialized in suicide operations. Has carried out numerous cross-border terrorist attacks into Israel, using unusual means, such as hot-air balloons and motorized hang gliders. Hafiz Kassem Dalkamoni, a ranking PFLP-GC official, was convicted in Germany in June 1991 for bombing U.S. troop trains. He faces additional charges in Germany for other terrorist offenses, including manslaughter.

Strength

Several hundred.

Location/Area of Operation

Headquarters in Damascus with bases in Lebanon and cells in Europe.

External Aid

Receives logistic and military support from Syria, its chief sponsor; financial support from Libya; safehaven in Syria. Receives support also from Iran.

Created: 04/02/95
Last Updated: 02/10/97
Page Maintained by George Goncalves - ggoncalves@nps.navy.mil