This image from a video released in early 2010 shows the Jordanian Abu Dujana al-Khurasani (right) and TTP leader Hakimullah Mehsud. Khorasani’s real name was Humam Khalil Abu Malal al-Balawi. The men are sitting in front of a black banner bearing the text of the shahada (Islamic testimony of faith holding that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is his messenger).
According to hadith (prophetic tradition or report), it was the battle flag of the Prophet Muhammad that was carried into battle by many of his companions. The image of the black flag has been used as a symbol of religious revolt and engagement in battle (i.e. jihad). In the contemporary Islamist movement, the black flag with the shahada (Islamic testimony of faith – There is no god but Allah and Muhammad His messenger) is used to evoke both notions of defensive jihad and reestablishing the Islamic Caliphate.
In the top right corner of the image appears the `Umar Studio logo, TTP media arm.
