AQ did not set up the conditions but when the see a pool of ggasoline in a useful place they will throw the match and import more gasoline. The first 10 burnt cars may not have been at AQ direction but I am pretty sure AQ or derivatives have worked hard to convert this into the next offensive.
I agree with that. They're going to see how far the "street" can take it without jumping in, because once that happens, it justifies an immediate military response (although I don't know why this situation doesn't already). If these hooligans want to carry the water for awhile, AQ will let them.
What disturbs me most is the thought that French authoritied are scared stiff of responding with force and setting off a massive Arab revolt (what I think we're envisioning coming next). It seems like the Arabs really have their number at this point.