Conversation so far:
What were some of Anwar al-Awlaki's connections?
As imam at a mosque in Falls Church, Virginia, Anwar al-Awlaki spoke with and preached to three of the 9/11 hijackers.
What countries was Anwar Al-Awlaki going after?
Anwar Al-Awlaki was active in the United States, United Kingdom and Yemen.
Were there others connected to Anwar Al-Awlaki?
Anwar al-Awlaki may have associated with Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, who attempted the 2009 Christmas Day bombing of an American airliner. Al-Awlaki was allegedly involved in planning Abdulmutallab's attack.

Question: How was he contacting these people?
Self-contained rewrite: How was Anwar Al-Awlaki contacting these people?