Al-Qaeda in Iraq is using a new strategy for transmitting messages and orders to its various cells, by using women known as mujahidat [committed to jihad] or mu'minat [believers].

These mail couriers are usually related to a male member of Al-Qaeda and can be trusted in terms of their devotion to the cause.

Members of Al-Qaeda who are not Iraqis are encouraged to wed widows of "martyrs."

Polygamy is encouraged, and practiced to give shelter to as many widows as possible and to help integrate foreign terrorists into the local community.

Source: Al-Mada, Iraq, July 21, 2010