by Roula Khalaf The Financial Times Al-Qaeda is usually portrayed as a collection of Islamist fanatics, bent on the destruction of democratic values and, as the US often says, the obliteration of the western "way of life". But four years after the September 11 terrorist attacks led to the devastation of the group's haven in Afghanistan, the remaining leadership appears to be … [Read more...]
The Zawahiri letter, part one
Is it real? by Shaun Waterman United Press International WASHINGTON, Oct. 18 (UPI) -- President Bush's unprecedented inclusion in his weekend radio address of a direct reference to a letter he said was written by al-Qaida's number two, Ayman al-Zawahiri, highlights the fascinating insights it appears to offer into the inner workings of the group. But there are nagging … [Read more...]
Al Qaeda’s Offensive Rhetoric
What Does Al-Qaeda Ultimately Want? Private Papers Al-Qaeda has shrewdly seen to it that, along with the sword, they also employ the pen in their Holy War. In order to vindicate their actions and rally support, they have orchestrated a series of carefully constructed messages. These messages fall into two distinct genres, each revealing a different goal. The West is familiar … [Read more...]
From Nationalism to Fascism to Terror
Parallels between Germany and the Arab World On occasion, one finds a historical pattern that provides a paradigm useful for interpreting contemporary world events. One such paradigm is the almost eerie parallel between Germany's history — its progress from Nationalism to Fascism and ultimately Terror — and the recent history of the Arab world. Nationalism, of course, … [Read more...]
Doubleday’s al-Qaeda Book Has Industry Jawing
Publishers Weekly January 24, 2005 The news last week that Doubleday has acquired a book based on the writings of the al-Qaeda braintrust has reverberated through the industry, as nearly everyone has something to say about the house's daring move. A publishing attorney called it dangerous, a retailer was anticipating a big sale and a competing house said the material may be … [Read more...]