Ben Hubbard of the New York Times informs readers about Army of Conquest (secular conquest of course)

"The alliance consists of a number of mostly Islamist factions, including the Nusra Front, Al Qaeda’s Syrian affiliate; Ahrar al-Sham, another large group; and more moderate rebel factions".  Wait. Wait. If they are "moderate rebel groups" why would they be aligned with the official Al-Qa`ida branch in Syria? Can you explain that one, please?  Are you seeing one can be a moderate and still be an ally of Al-Qa`ida?