Real News From The Blaze': Al Qaeda Presence in Iraq Strengthening

The resurgence of Al Qaeda in Iraq since the U.S. withdrew combat troops last December has been discussed on 'Real News' before. On Thursday, the world saw the latest development in the disturbing trend as Al Qaeda militants took down an Iraqi army helicopter during clashes that have killed at least 19 people including 11 policemen. According to recent reports, the radical group in Iraq is looking to expand its attacks to the US mainland.

Intelligence officials tell the Los Angeles Times that the group released a message this week in which it threatened to strike at the "heart" of the United States. Several associated groups have been arrested in the U.S. and Canada in the past 2 years.

On 'Real News' Thursday the panel discussed whether this is a true indication that Al Qaeda in Iraq is gaining in strength and capable to carry out their threats.