2. Basic Facts ofBasic Facts of
IslamIslam Islam is theIslam is the thirdthird in successionin succession
of the three great monotheisticof the three great monotheistic
faiths born in the Middle East (Judaism,faiths born in the Middle East (Judaism,
Christianity, Islam)Christianity, Islam)
Islam is theIslam is the secondsecond largest religion in worldlargest religion in world
(1.2 billion adherents)(1.2 billion adherents)
Islam is theIslam is the fastestfastest growing religion in thegrowing religion in the
worldworld
3. Muslims believe that the Qu'ran is God's word
as revealed to the prophet Muhammad (570-
632) through the angel Gabriel.
According to Islam, there are 25 prophet that
sent by Allah;
Five major prophets: Noah, Abraham, Moses,
Jesus and Muhammad (he is the last prophet).
Muslim" is an Arabic word meaning "one who
submits to God"
II.II. Basic Facts of IslamBasic Facts of Islam
4. The Prophet Muhammad
• Born in Mecca in Arabia
• Raised by merchants
• Received a revelation from
Allah (God) during the
month of Ramadan
• Tension between Muhammad’s
monotheism and the
polytheism of the people of
Mecca
5. The Holy Quran
• Muslims believe the Quran is
the direct word of Allah
revealed to Muhammad
• Written and read in Arabic
7. The Islamic CaliphateThe Islamic Caliphate
After the death of Muhammad, caliphs (leaders) controlled the
Muslim world. Most famous caliphates: the Umayyad dynasty and
the Abbasid dynasty. Umayyad capital city: Damascus (in Syria).
Abbasid capital: Baghdad (in Iraq).
8. The Golden Age of IslamThe Golden Age of Islam
(750-1258)(750-1258)
Islam flourished as a religion during The
Golden Age
The Golden Age took place during 750-1258
AD It has now become the second largest
religion in the world, after Christianity Many
people turned to Islam due to its solid belief
system Islam spread wide and fast across
the world and soon became a major religion
9. Sunni-ShiaSunni-Shia
Islam has many denominations but the largest
and most well known are the Sunni and Shia
Sunni is the largest sect of Islam. Sunni is
about 80% of all Muslims). Sunni is the
traditional path of the religion Sunnis believe
that the first four caliphs were the right
successors to Muhammad and that a caliph
should be chosen by all the community
10. ShiaShia
Shia is about 10-20% of Islam
It is the second largest branch of the religion
They believe in the political and religious
leadership of Imam
They believe that a caliph is appointed by
divine will
There are also many branches that pertain to
Shia Islam
The most famous is the Twelvers who follow a
tradition called Ja'fari jurisprudence.
11. Short Timeline of IslamShort Timeline of Islam
c. 570 CE Birth of Muhammad.
c. 610 CE Muhammad receives first vision in a cave near
Mecca.
c. 610-22 CE Muhammad preaches in Mecca.
622 CE Hijira - Muhammad and followers flee to Medina.
624 CE Muslims successfully attack Meccan caravans at
Badr.
625 Muslims are defeated by Meccans at Uhud.
630 Muslims capture Mecca. Ka'ba is cleansed,
pilgrimage rites are Islamicized, tribes of Arabia vow
allegiance to Muhammad
632 Death of Muhammad. Abu Bakr chosen as caliph.
680 Death of Husayn marks beginning of the Shi'at Ali
("party of Ali") or Shi'a sect.
14. The Muslim World
• Major groups of Muslims: Sunnis and Shi’ites
• Most Muslims are Sunnis
• Shi’ites are the majority in Iraq and Iran
21. Islam and WomenIslam and Women
Women dress modestly out of reverence forWomen dress modestly out of reverence for
God, not for men. Muslim women are not moreGod, not for men. Muslim women are not more
submissive than other women. Some arguesubmissive than other women. Some argue
that Muslim women, in fact, have been treatedthat Muslim women, in fact, have been treated
better than women in other cultures. Forbetter than women in other cultures. For
example, women in Islam were given the rightexample, women in Islam were given the right
to vote about 1,400 years ago, centuries beforeto vote about 1,400 years ago, centuries before
other women. Of course, like many otherother women. Of course, like many other
cultures, patriarchal culture can corrupt Muslimcultures, patriarchal culture can corrupt Muslim
culture.culture.
23. Islam TermsIslam Terms
Islam:Islam: an Arabic word that means “submittingan Arabic word that means “submitting
to God” and “peace”to God” and “peace”
Muslim:Muslim: a person who follows the teachings ofa person who follows the teachings of
Islam and “submits to God and finds peace inIslam and “submits to God and finds peace in
Him”. All creation is Muslim.Him”. All creation is Muslim.
Shahadah:Shahadah: ““There is no god but God andThere is no god but God and
Muhammad is the Messenger of GodMuhammad is the Messenger of God”.”.
Allah:Allah: Arabic name for God. It is preferredArabic name for God. It is preferred
over other names because it has no genderover other names because it has no gender
affiliation and does not have pluralityaffiliation and does not have plurality
24. Understanding IslamUnderstanding Islam
Islam is aIslam is a rationalrational religion:religion:
““The vilest of creatures are thoseThe vilest of creatures are those
who choose to be deaf andwho choose to be deaf and
dumb and do not use theirdumb and do not use their
reason.reason.” (Qur’an 8:2)” (Qur’an 8:2)
Muhammad reminded hisMuhammad reminded his
followers that “followers that “The first thing GodThe first thing God
created was reasoncreated was reason”. Therefore,”. Therefore,
believers must takebelievers must take personalpersonal
responsibilityresponsibility for one’s actionsfor one’s actions
and faith.and faith.
25. Freedom of ConscienceFreedom of Conscience
““There is no compulsion in religion. TruthThere is no compulsion in religion. Truth
stands out clearly from falsehood;stands out clearly from falsehood;
whoever rejects evil and believes in Godwhoever rejects evil and believes in God
has grasped the strongest rope that neverhas grasped the strongest rope that never
breaks. And God is All Hearing and Allbreaks. And God is All Hearing and All
Knowing”Knowing”
Qur’an 2:256Qur’an 2:256
26. BeliefsBeliefs
1.1. Belief in only One GodBelief in only One God.. He is defined as Eternal, Absolute,He is defined as Eternal, Absolute,
Infinite, Compassionate and Merciful, the sole Creator andInfinite, Compassionate and Merciful, the sole Creator and
Provider.Provider.
2.2. Engage only in Righteous ActionsEngage only in Righteous Actions in all areas: spiritual,in all areas: spiritual,
intellectual and physical activity.intellectual and physical activity.
3.3. All God’s creation is “Muslim”.All God’s creation is “Muslim”. Only humans are givenOnly humans are given
CHOICE to submit (be Muslim) or reject submission to God’s will.CHOICE to submit (be Muslim) or reject submission to God’s will.
4.4. All children are born without sin and are MuslimAll children are born without sin and are Muslim. As they. As they
grow older, they make their religious CHOICE.grow older, they make their religious CHOICE.
5.5. God created human beings with a body and soul.God created human beings with a body and soul. TheThe
body is a temporal host for this life, whereas the soul is eternal. Itbody is a temporal host for this life, whereas the soul is eternal. It
is the soul that will survive beyond death.is the soul that will survive beyond death.
6.6. Universality of the call.Universality of the call. All Muslims are brothers and equalsAll Muslims are brothers and equals
without any distinction of class, race or tongue. Superiority is onlywithout any distinction of class, race or tongue. Superiority is only
based on the greater fear of God and greater piety.based on the greater fear of God and greater piety.
28. PracticesPractices
PrayerPrayer
worshippers line up in rows andworshippers line up in rows and
enact ritual in unison (prostration)enact ritual in unison (prostration)
Friday midday prayers at mosqueFriday midday prayers at mosque
FastingFasting
month of Ramadan (ninth month of lunarmonth of Ramadan (ninth month of lunar
year) to test the spirit, discipline the willyear) to test the spirit, discipline the will
and remind of the hungry and poorand remind of the hungry and poor
Numerous important events took placeNumerous important events took place
during Ramadan (first revelation in 610 CE,during Ramadan (first revelation in 610 CE,
flight to Mecca in 622 CE, victory in 624flight to Mecca in 622 CE, victory in 624
CE)CE)
Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr (period ofRamadan ends with Eid al-Fitr (period of
spiritual and moral renewal)spiritual and moral renewal)
29. MosqueMosque
Muslim place of worship MuslimsMuslim place of worship Muslims
come together in a mosque for prayerscome together in a mosque for prayers
at midday on Friday (Muslim Holy Day)at midday on Friday (Muslim Holy Day)
MIHRABMIHRAB= small arch or hole in wall= small arch or hole in wall
indicates the direction of the Ka’bah inindicates the direction of the Ka’bah in
MeccaMecca
MINARETMINARET= high tower or dome from= high tower or dome from
which a muezzin calls the faithful towhich a muezzin calls the faithful to
prayerprayer
WUDUWUDU= cleansing process before= cleansing process before
prayer (water)prayer (water)
IMAMIMAM= chief officer in the mosque who= chief officer in the mosque who
leads prayersleads prayers
32. QuranQuran
Holy book of Islam which means “Holy book of Islam which means “recitationrecitation””
Records the revealed word of God that came throughRecords the revealed word of God that came through
Angel Gabriel to Muhammad over 23 yearsAngel Gabriel to Muhammad over 23 years
Muhammad dictated revelations to scribes andMuhammad dictated revelations to scribes and
companions whocompanions who memorizedmemorized passagespassages
It is the only revealed book that hasIt is the only revealed book that has remained intact andremained intact and
unchangedunchanged since its revelation (oral tradition)since its revelation (oral tradition)
Principle source of Muslim faith and practicePrinciple source of Muslim faith and practice
Children learn toChildren learn to memorizememorize the Qur’an as a childthe Qur’an as a child
Divided into 114Divided into 114 surassuras (chapters); longest chapter has 286(chapters); longest chapter has 286
verses, the shortest has 3 verses; approximately 78 000verses, the shortest has 3 verses; approximately 78 000
words in lengthwords in length
33. al-Fatihah (The Opening)al-Fatihah (The Opening)
Qur’an 1: 1-7Qur’an 1: 1-7
““In the name of Allah, Most Gracious MostIn the name of Allah, Most Gracious Most
Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the CherisherMerciful. Praise be to Allah, the Cherisher
and Sustainer of the Worlds. Mostand Sustainer of the Worlds. Most
Gracious, Most Merciful. Master of theGracious, Most Merciful. Master of the
Day of Judgment. Thee do we worshipDay of Judgment. Thee do we worship
and Thine aid we seek: Show us theand Thine aid we seek: Show us the
straight way. The way of those on whomstraight way. The way of those on whom
Thou hast bestowed Thy Grace, thoseThou hast bestowed Thy Grace, those
whose portion is not wrath and who go notwhose portion is not wrath and who go not
astray.”astray.”
34. TheThe KabahKabah
KabahKabah- cube shaped- cube shaped
building that was built bybuilding that was built by
Abraham to honour GodAbraham to honour God
Viewed as Adam’sViewed as Adam’s
original place of worshiporiginal place of worship
Was filled with idols asWas filled with idols as
people in Arabia followedpeople in Arabia followed
polytheismpolytheism
Muhammad- receivedMuhammad- received
revelations that led torevelations that led to
Islam and monotheismIslam and monotheism
(and removal of idols)(and removal of idols)
Site ofSite of hajjhajj- pilgrimage to- pilgrimage to
MeccaMecca
40. MuhammadMuhammad
SEAL of the Prophets (last in a line of 28SEAL of the Prophets (last in a line of 28
Prophets who all preached the religion of Islam)Prophets who all preached the religion of Islam)
Born in 570 CEBorn in 570 CE
Each succeeding Prophet added or improved upon theEach succeeding Prophet added or improved upon the
cumulative message of Islamcumulative message of Islam
Through Muhammand (PBUH), the message of Islam wasThrough Muhammand (PBUH), the message of Islam was
completed and is preserved intact in the Qur’ancompleted and is preserved intact in the Qur’an
In 622 CE, hijrah (migration) where Muhammad movedIn 622 CE, hijrah (migration) where Muhammad moved
from Mecca to Madinah (marks the beginning of thefrom Mecca to Madinah (marks the beginning of the
Muslim calendar)Muslim calendar)
Islam spread to Arabia, Spain and as far East as ChinaIslam spread to Arabia, Spain and as far East as China
41. Other ProphetsOther Prophets
These Prophets are regarded asThese Prophets are regarded as
most significant:most significant: Muhammad,Muhammad,
Moses, Abraham and NoahMoses, Abraham and Noah
JesusJesus is highly respected andis highly respected and
considered as a great prophet byconsidered as a great prophet by
MuslimsMuslims
Qur’an re-affirms the miraculousQur’an re-affirms the miraculous
birth and abilities of Jesusbirth and abilities of Jesus
Muslims believe in the SecondMuslims believe in the Second
Coming of Jesus before the endComing of Jesus before the end
of timeof time
42. Human EqualityHuman Equality
““O humankind! You were created from a singleO humankind! You were created from a single
soul, male and female, and made you intosoul, male and female, and made you into
peoples and tribes. So that you may know onepeoples and tribes. So that you may know one
another. Truly, the most honored of you inanother. Truly, the most honored of you in
God’s sight is the greatest of you in piety. GodGod’s sight is the greatest of you in piety. God
is All Knowing, All Aware”is All Knowing, All Aware”
(Qur’an 49:13)(Qur’an 49:13)
43. Islam and WarIslam and War
Like Christianity, Islam permitsLike Christianity, Islam permits
fighting in self defense, in defensefighting in self defense, in defense
of religion, or on the part of those who have beenof religion, or on the part of those who have been
expelled forcibly from their homesexpelled forcibly from their homes
Strict rules for combat, which includes prohibitionsStrict rules for combat, which includes prohibitions
against harming civilians and against destroyingagainst harming civilians and against destroying
crops, trees and livestockcrops, trees and livestock
““Fight in the cause of God against those who fight you,Fight in the cause of God against those who fight you,
but do not transgress limits. God does not lovebut do not transgress limits. God does not love
transgressors” (Qur’an 2:190)transgressors” (Qur’an 2:190)
““And fight them unitl persecution is no more, andAnd fight them unitl persecution is no more, and
religion is for God. But if they desist, then let there bereligion is for God. But if they desist, then let there be
no hosility excpet against wrongdoers” (Qur’an 2:193)no hosility excpet against wrongdoers” (Qur’an 2:193)
44. Day ofDay of
JudgmentJudgment
All humans will be bodilyAll humans will be bodily
resurrected and assembledresurrected and assembled
for final accounting of deedsfor final accounting of deeds
Soul will move on to afterlifeSoul will move on to afterlife
Upon theUpon the Final JudgmentFinal Judgment = world will end and= world will end and
we will stand before God to confront our own lifewe will stand before God to confront our own life
and actionsand actions
Desire for purified soul=Desire for purified soul= heavenheaven (eternal abode(eternal abode
of beauty and majesty)of beauty and majesty)
Disbelievers and unpure soul=Disbelievers and unpure soul= hellhell (abode of(abode of
great torment and anguish)great torment and anguish)
45. JihadJihad
Jihad does not mean “holy war”Jihad does not mean “holy war”
Literally, jihad means toLiterally, jihad means to strive, struggle andstrive, struggle and
exert effort.exert effort.
Concept includes struggle against evilConcept includes struggle against evil
inclinations within oneself, struggle to improveinclinations within oneself, struggle to improve
quality of life in society, struggle in the battlefieldquality of life in society, struggle in the battlefield
for self defense or fighting against tyranny orfor self defense or fighting against tyranny or
oppressionoppression
There is no such thing as “holy war” in Islam, butThere is no such thing as “holy war” in Islam, but
it is the frequent repetition in the West that manyit is the frequent repetition in the West that many
people accept it as if it were a factpeople accept it as if it were a fact
46. Women’s RightsWomen’s Rights
According to Quran, men and women are equal beforeAccording to Quran, men and women are equal before
GodGod
Under Islamic law, women have the right to ownUnder Islamic law, women have the right to own
property, receive an education and take part inproperty, receive an education and take part in
community lifecommunity life
Islamic rules for simple, modest and dignified dressIslamic rules for simple, modest and dignified dress
applies to women and men equallyapplies to women and men equally
In many Muslim countries there are cultural practicesIn many Muslim countries there are cultural practices
that are inconsistent and contrary to the authenticthat are inconsistent and contrary to the authentic
teachings of Islamteachings of Islam
47. Honor killing- deeply rooted inHonor killing- deeply rooted in
Islamic cultureIslamic culture
Victim of rape isVictim of rape is
killed…women’s faultkilled…women’s fault
for beingfor being
raped….thus, coverraped….thus, cover
Jordan, article 340 ofJordan, article 340 of
the criminal codethe criminal code
does not penalizedoes not penalize
murder of womenmurder of women
48. Islam: ControversialIslam: Controversial
IssuesIssues
Right to punish womenRight to punish women
PolygamyPolygamy
Jihad vs. Holy WarJihad vs. Holy War
Hijab : liberation or suppressionHijab : liberation or suppression
Muhammad Cartoons: freedom of speech vsMuhammad Cartoons: freedom of speech vs
freedom of religionfreedom of religion
Appeal of Suicide BombersAppeal of Suicide Bombers
Afghanistan's TalibanAfghanistan's Taliban
War on IslamWar on Islam
50. In the Islamic way of thinking religion is related toIn the Islamic way of thinking religion is related to
politics - but this does not mean man does not needpolitics - but this does not mean man does not need
the rationality of modern sciencethe rationality of modern science
Instead, it means that a devoted religious manInstead, it means that a devoted religious man
should try to co-ordinate his political reactions withshould try to co-ordinate his political reactions with
his religious values.his religious values.
DR MOHSEN KADIVAR, Iranian clericDR MOHSEN KADIVAR, Iranian cleric
Role of Islam in SocietyRole of Islam in Society
51. ““In the Islamic system of values and from the point ofIn the Islamic system of values and from the point of
view of Muslim fundamentalists, religion cannot beview of Muslim fundamentalists, religion cannot be
separated from any aspect of life.”separated from any aspect of life.”
““Religion is omnipresent in every aspect of a MuslimReligion is omnipresent in every aspect of a Muslim
individual's private and social life from the economy toindividual's private and social life from the economy to
social relations.”social relations.”
““What does harm to the society is not religion - it is theWhat does harm to the society is not religion - it is the
way in which some of the rulers take advantage ofway in which some of the rulers take advantage of
religion”religion”
DR MEHDI KHAZALI, Iranian clericDR MEHDI KHAZALI, Iranian cleric
Role of Islam in SocietyRole of Islam in Society
52. 5252
Terrorism and The MuslimTerrorism and The Muslim
BrotherhoodBrotherhood
– ““God is our purpose, the Prophet our leader,God is our purpose, the Prophet our leader,
the Quran our constitution, jihad our way andthe Quran our constitution, jihad our way and
dying for God’s cause our supreme objective.”dying for God’s cause our supreme objective.”
Hassan al-Banna founder of the MuslimHassan al-Banna founder of the Muslim
BrotherhoodBrotherhood
www.muslimbrotherhoodterrorism.webs.com
53. 5353
Merging the Taliban and Al QaedaMerging the Taliban and Al Qaeda
In the early 1980s, Mustafa Abu al-Yazid served threeIn the early 1980s, Mustafa Abu al-Yazid served three
years in an Egyptian prison for links to the groupyears in an Egyptian prison for links to the group
responsible for the 1981 assassination of Egyptianresponsible for the 1981 assassination of Egyptian
President Anwar Sadat (the Muslim Brotherhood).President Anwar Sadat (the Muslim Brotherhood).
After his release, Yazid went to Afghanistan, andAfter his release, Yazid went to Afghanistan, and
became a founding member of Al Qaeda.became a founding member of Al Qaeda.
He followed bin Laden to Sudan and back toHe followed bin Laden to Sudan and back to
Afghanistan, where he served as al Qaeda's chiefAfghanistan, where he served as al Qaeda's chief
financial officer, managing secret bank accounts in thefinancial officer, managing secret bank accounts in the
Persian Gulf that were used to finance the Sept. 11Persian Gulf that were used to finance the Sept. 11
attacks.attacks.
After the U.S. and its allies invaded Afghanistan inAfter the U.S. and its allies invaded Afghanistan in
2001, Yazid went into hiding for years. He surfaced in2001, Yazid went into hiding for years. He surfaced in
May 2007 during a 45-minute interview posted on theMay 2007 during a 45-minute interview posted on the
Web by al Sabah, in which he was introduced as theWeb by al Sabah, in which he was introduced as the
``official in charge'' of the terrorist movement's``official in charge'' of the terrorist movement's
operations in Afghanistan.operations in Afghanistan.
Mustafa Abu al-Yazid, the terror leader who earlier thisMustafa Abu al-Yazid, the terror leader who earlier this
year said he would use nukes on America if he couldyear said he would use nukes on America if he could
only get his hands on some.only get his hands on some.
54. 5454
Muslim Brotherhood Organizations
Islamic Jihad,
Al-Gama’a al
Islamiya, Jihad
Talaat al-Fath
Hamas
Al Qaeda
Hezbollah
Jamaat-e-Islami
Islamic Salvation Front,
Armed Islamic Group
Hizballah Al-Hijaz
National Islamic Front
Jemaah Islamiyah
55. 5555
Radical Muslim Terror Attacks in EuropeRadical Muslim Terror Attacks in Europe
Mar. 2004 Madrid train bombings by an al-Qaeda-inspiredMar. 2004 Madrid train bombings by an al-Qaeda-inspired
terrorist cell, three days before Spain's general elections. 191terrorist cell, three days before Spain's general elections. 191
killed; 1,755 wounded.killed; 1,755 wounded.
Nov. 2004 – Dutch film-maker Theo van Gogh is murdered byNov. 2004 – Dutch film-maker Theo van Gogh is murdered by
Islamic extremist Mohammed Bouyeri, a Dutch citizen.Islamic extremist Mohammed Bouyeri, a Dutch citizen.
July 2005 - 52 people died in the London bombings carried outJuly 2005 - 52 people died in the London bombings carried out
by four British Muslims.by four British Muslims.
Oct. 2005 - More than three weeks of rioting in France's mainlyOct. 2005 - More than three weeks of rioting in France's mainly
Muslim suburbsMuslim suburbs
Jan. 2006 - Violent protests across Europe and Middle MastJan. 2006 - Violent protests across Europe and Middle Mast
over publication by a Danish newspaper of cartoons of theover publication by a Danish newspaper of cartoons of the
Prophet Mohammed.Prophet Mohammed.
56. 5656
Non-Assimilation in EuropeNon-Assimilation in Europe
FranceFrance – Oct. 2005 riots in Muslim suburb of Paris; continued– Oct. 2005 riots in Muslim suburb of Paris; continued
concentration in poor suburbs of urban areas since 1980’sconcentration in poor suburbs of urban areas since 1980’s
including Paris, Lille, Lyon, Marseilleincluding Paris, Lille, Lyon, Marseille
BritainBritain – Almost half the 1350 mosques are run by radical– Almost half the 1350 mosques are run by radical
Deobandi sect that created the Taliban. A new generation ofDeobandi sect that created the Taliban. A new generation of
British imams have a radical agenda: scorn for Muslims whoBritish imams have a radical agenda: scorn for Muslims who
say they are British; preach friendship with a Jew or a Christiansay they are British; preach friendship with a Jew or a Christian
makes “a mockery of Allah’s religion”. Seventeen of Britain’smakes “a mockery of Allah’s religion”. Seventeen of Britain’s
26 Islamic seminaries are run by Deobandis.26 Islamic seminaries are run by Deobandis.
NetherlandsNetherlands – Imams at 180 of 450 mosques have left; the– Imams at 180 of 450 mosques have left; the
vacuum is being filled by unqualified, radical preachers. Onevacuum is being filled by unqualified, radical preachers. One
million Muslims in Netherlands. Uproar over Nov. 2006 ban onmillion Muslims in Netherlands. Uproar over Nov. 2006 ban on
burqas in public places.burqas in public places.
57. 5757
Oct. 16, 2009 Protesters rallied as anti-Islamic Dutch lawmaker Geert
Wilders held a news conference in London.
http://islamizationwatch.blogspot.com/
59. 5959
Partial Assimilation in the U.S.Partial Assimilation in the U.S.
Roughly 5M Muslims in the U.S. accounting for aboutRoughly 5M Muslims in the U.S. accounting for about
1.6% of the U.S. population.1.6% of the U.S. population.
Largest segment is African-Americans (42% of U.S.Largest segment is African-Americans (42% of U.S.
Muslims); followed by south Asians (24%), then ArabsMuslims); followed by south Asians (24%), then Arabs
(12%). Other groups contribute 5% or less to the U.S.(12%). Other groups contribute 5% or less to the U.S.
Muslim population.Muslim population.
Largest populations are in California (1M), New YorkLargest populations are in California (1M), New York
(800K), Illinois (420K), and New Jersey (200K);(800K), Illinois (420K), and New Jersey (200K);
Indiana, Michigan, Virginia, Texas and Ohio containIndiana, Michigan, Virginia, Texas and Ohio contain
fewer than 200K each.fewer than 200K each.
The U.S. has 843 mosques and 165 Islamic schoolsThe U.S. has 843 mosques and 165 Islamic schools
60. Imam KhomeiniImam Khomeini
"There is no room for play in Islam... It is deadly
serious about everything."
Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini
Speech at Qum, reported in Time magazine January 7,
1980
61. "The Vampires of the
West and East all feeding
on the Muslim Ummah."
Revolutionary Art
62. Muslim clergy and soldiers clasp hands in friendship atop an
armored personnel carrier.
63. Bernard Lewis:
- Who did this to us?
- Blaming the West vs. corrupt regimes vs. each other
- Islam and liberal democracy - compatible?
Communication Filters vis-à-vis West . . .
Radical IslamRadical IslamAcross the
globe, there are
terrorists killing
in the name of
Islam, but a new
study shows
that al Qaeda
attacks kill eight
times more
Muslims than
non-Muslims.
64. The radical neo-fundamentalists view the action as more
important than the result. Thus, individual jihad becomes
more important than victory. The goal is to serve God,
not to achieve a certain political agenda. The results will
come when God wills it.
- Magnus Norell
Radical IslamRadical Islam
68. The Main Categories of Non-The Main Categories of Non-
State Terrorist GroupsState Terrorist Groups
Ethno-nationalist separatist and irredentistEthno-nationalist separatist and irredentist
groupsgroups
Secular left-wing groupsSecular left-wing groups
Secular right-wing groupsSecular right-wing groups
Religious terrorist groupsReligious terrorist groups
Single-issue groupsSingle-issue groups
69. Types Religious Terrorist GroupsTypes Religious Terrorist Groups
Jihadist GroupsJihadist Groups
Different Interest Integrating Groups(al –Qaida)Different Interest Integrating Groups(al –Qaida)
State Sponsored Groups (Hezbollah)State Sponsored Groups (Hezbollah)
Geographically fixed Groups (Hamas)Geographically fixed Groups (Hamas)
70. 1) Islamist terrorism;
2) Jewish fundamentalist terrorism, primarily
inside Israel;
3) Christian terrorism, which can be further
subdivided into fundamentalist terrorism of an
Orthodox (mainly in Russia), Catholic, or
Protestant stamp (which, in the U.S., is
especially aimed at stopping the provision of
abortions) and terrorism inspired by the
idiosyncratic Christian Identity doctrine;
4) Hindu fundamentalist/nationalist terrorism;
5) Terrorism carried out by apocalyptic religious
cults.
Types Religious Terrorist GroupsTypes Religious Terrorist Groups IIII
71. Distribution of MuslimDistribution of Muslim
populationpopulation
MuszlimMuszlim
SzunnitaSzunnita
SíitaSíita
VahabitaVahabita
SzikhSzikh
BaháiBahái
1198,2 MILLIONS*1198,2 MILLIONS*
952,4952,4
111,8111,8
108,0108,0
20,020,0
6,06,0
** ROSTOVÁNYI ZS.: Mit kell tudni azROSTOVÁNYI ZS.: Mit kell tudni az
iszlámról? Kossuth Könyvkiadó,iszlámról? Kossuth Könyvkiadó,
Budapest, 1983., p. 239.Budapest, 1983., p. 239.
76. The Global CaliphateThe Global Caliphate
The Taliban and Al Qaeda in AfghanistanThe Taliban and Al Qaeda in Afghanistan
20092009
The Global CaliphateThe Global Caliphate
Why Islamic Radicals Hate the U.S. andWhy Islamic Radicals Hate the U.S. and
the Westthe West
Non-assimilation in EuropeNon-assimilation in Europe
Partial Assimilation in the U.S.Partial Assimilation in the U.S.
What Islam is NotWhat Islam is Not
77. What Islam is Not
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JBeQYUce88
78. The Arab SpringThe Arab Spring
Al Qaeda in IraqAl Qaeda in Iraq
TunisiaTunisia
EgyptEgypt
LibyaLibya
BahrainBahrain
YemenYemen
Syria is DifferentSyria is Different
Mali and AQIMMali and AQIM
79. 7979
Al Qaeda in IraqAl Qaeda in Iraq
2003 - Al Qaeda in Iraq draws on Sunni Baathists to form an2003 - Al Qaeda in Iraq draws on Sunni Baathists to form an
insurgency, supported by Iran.insurgency, supported by Iran.
– Al Qaeda in Iraq (AQI) is 90% Iraqi membership however the leadershipAl Qaeda in Iraq (AQI) is 90% Iraqi membership however the leadership
and suicide bombers are 90% foreign fighters.and suicide bombers are 90% foreign fighters.
• Originally led by Jordanian, Abu Musab alOriginally led by Jordanian, Abu Musab al
Zarqawi, who targeted Shia to provoke a Shia-Zarqawi, who targeted Shia to provoke a Shia-
Sunni civil war.Sunni civil war.
– Aug 03 bomb killed 85 Shia in Najaf; Mar 04 attacks Shia mosques duringAug 03 bomb killed 85 Shia in Najaf; Mar 04 attacks Shia mosques during
Ashura, killing over 180; Feb 06 destroyed Shia Mosque in SamarraAshura, killing over 180; Feb 06 destroyed Shia Mosque in Samarra
June 2006 killed by U.S. forces; succeeded by Abu Ayyub al-Masri,June 2006 killed by U.S. forces; succeeded by Abu Ayyub al-Masri,
an Egyptianan Egyptian
Abu Musab Al-Zarqawi
80. 8080
Al Qaeda in IraqAl Qaeda in Iraq
AQI recruits Sunnis and uses violence to terrorizeAQI recruits Sunnis and uses violence to terrorize
Sunnis into participation.Sunnis into participation.
By 2006 AQI was so unpopular their continuedBy 2006 AQI was so unpopular their continued
presence relied on continuous violence against theirpresence relied on continuous violence against their
hosts.hosts.
AQI tried to solidify its position in Anbar by marryingAQI tried to solidify its position in Anbar by marrying
some of its senior leaders to the daughters of Anbarisome of its senior leaders to the daughters of Anbari
tribal leaders, as al Qaeda has done in South Asia.tribal leaders, as al Qaeda has done in South Asia.
The sheikhs resisted; AQI attacked them and theirThe sheikhs resisted; AQI attacked them and their
families.families.
AQI operations in Anbar were broken by sustainedAQI operations in Anbar were broken by sustained
operations by Iraqi security forces assisting theoperations by Iraqi security forces assisting the
coalition surge and commitment to remain in thecoalition surge and commitment to remain in the
province after clearing AQI leaders to prevent theirprovince after clearing AQI leaders to prevent their
81. 8181
Close confidant of Ayman al Zawahiri; a memberClose confidant of Ayman al Zawahiri; a member
of Egyptian Islamic Jihad, the group that foldedof Egyptian Islamic Jihad, the group that folded
into al Qaeda under Zawahiri’s leadership.into al Qaeda under Zawahiri’s leadership.
2002 - Entered Iraq prior to US invasion,2002 - Entered Iraq prior to US invasion,
established the first terror cell in Baghdad.established the first terror cell in Baghdad.
Experienced bomb maker; built car bombs andExperienced bomb maker; built car bombs and
trained al Qaeda operatives.trained al Qaeda operatives.
Attempted to unite disparate Sunni insurgentAttempted to unite disparate Sunni insurgent
groupsgroups
Oct 2006 - Al Qaeda established “Islamic State ofOct 2006 - Al Qaeda established “Islamic State of
Iraq”Iraq”
April 2010 killed by American and Iraqi forces nearApril 2010 killed by American and Iraqi forces near
TikritTikrit
Abu Ayyub al-MasriAbu Ayyub al-Masri
Abu Ayyub al-Masri
82. 8282
The “Awakening People”The “Awakening People”
9/17/08 Dexter Filkins, NYTimes reporter and author of "Forever War"9/17/08 Dexter Filkins, NYTimes reporter and author of "Forever War"
interviewed 9/17/08 on National Public Radio’s Morning Edition program.interviewed 9/17/08 on National Public Radio’s Morning Edition program.
Gen. Odierno (who relieved Gen. David Petraeus as Commanding General ofGen. Odierno (who relieved Gen. David Petraeus as Commanding General of
Multi-National Force - Iraq (MNF-I)) commented that al Qaeda drove carMulti-National Force - Iraq (MNF-I)) commented that al Qaeda drove car
bombs into Shia mosques, and Shia militias would then retaliate in Sunnibombs into Shia mosques, and Shia militias would then retaliate in Sunni
neighborhoods. When the Sunni turned on al Qaeda the cycle was broken.neighborhoods. When the Sunni turned on al Qaeda the cycle was broken.
The “awakening people” had been insurgents; then placed on the US payroll,The “awakening people” had been insurgents; then placed on the US payroll,
about $500/mo. They wiped out much of the al Qaeda leadership in Iraq.about $500/mo. They wiped out much of the al Qaeda leadership in Iraq.
The more moderate Iraqi insurgents turned on the fanatic al Qaeda leadersThe more moderate Iraqi insurgents turned on the fanatic al Qaeda leaders
who were not capable of change and were killing Shia and keeping the civilwho were not capable of change and were killing Shia and keeping the civil
war alive. A Sunni sheikh told Filkins that in six weeks they killed 466 alwar alive. A Sunni sheikh told Filkins that in six weeks they killed 466 al
Qaeda leaders in his area, and he was very pleased with this. "We have aQaeda leaders in his area, and he was very pleased with this. "We have a
list“ said the sheikh.list“ said the sheikh.
Filkins recounts how Baghdad has changed since 2003: neighborhoodsFilkins recounts how Baghdad has changed since 2003: neighborhoods
where Americans couldn't even go in 2003 are now safe for Americans to gowhere Americans couldn't even go in 2003 are now safe for Americans to go
jogging, as Filkins did. "Now women are walking around alone, which wasjogging, as Filkins did. "Now women are walking around alone, which was
unheard of. They were wearing jeans and not covering their heads. It wasunheard of. They were wearing jeans and not covering their heads. It was
completely normal."completely normal."
Reference:Reference: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=94668565http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=94668565
84. TunisiaTunisia
Dec 2010 – 26-year-old vendorDec 2010 – 26-year-old vendor
Mohamed Bouazizi immolatesMohamed Bouazizi immolates
himself after police confiscatehimself after police confiscate
his fruit and vegetable carthis fruit and vegetable cart
because he lacks a permit;because he lacks a permit;
protests and then riots followprotests and then riots follow
Jan 2011 - Pres. Zine El AbidineJan 2011 - Pres. Zine El Abidine
Ben Ali flees to Saudi ArabiaBen Ali flees to Saudi Arabia
ending more than 20 years ofending more than 20 years of
dictatorshipdictatorship
Oct 2011 – Islamic partyOct 2011 – Islamic party
Ennahda wins first electionsEnnahda wins first elections
8484
85. EgyptEgypt
Jan 2011 protest erupt in Cairo’s Tahrir squareJan 2011 protest erupt in Cairo’s Tahrir square
Feb 2011 Pres. Hasni Mubarak steps down after nearly 30 years in power.Feb 2011 Pres. Hasni Mubarak steps down after nearly 30 years in power.
The Muslim Brotherhood is the major opposition to the governmentThe Muslim Brotherhood is the major opposition to the government
Aug 2011 – Mubarak goes on trialAug 2011 – Mubarak goes on trial
Oct 2011 – Coptic Christians protest destruction of a church by Islamists;Oct 2011 – Coptic Christians protest destruction of a church by Islamists;
Army attacks protesters with tanks, killing 27Army attacks protesters with tanks, killing 27
Nov 2011 – Muslim Brotherhood elected to a majority of seatsNov 2011 – Muslim Brotherhood elected to a majority of seats
June 2012 – Mohammed Morsi of Muslim Brotherhood elected president;June 2012 – Mohammed Morsi of Muslim Brotherhood elected president;
Mubarek sentenced to life in prisonMubarek sentenced to life in prison
Nov 2012 – Protests against Morsi’s draft constitution giving him unlimitedNov 2012 – Protests against Morsi’s draft constitution giving him unlimited
power including legislation without judicial oversight; drafted by Muslimpower including legislation without judicial oversight; drafted by Muslim
Brotherhood and Salafist allies, it could allow clerics to intervene inBrotherhood and Salafist allies, it could allow clerics to intervene in
lawmaking and leave minority groups without proper legal protectionlawmaking and leave minority groups without proper legal protection
Dec 2012 – Morsi signs new constitution into lawDec 2012 – Morsi signs new constitution into law
8585
86. LibyaLibya
Feb 2011 – Protest begin in Benghazi afterFeb 2011 – Protest begin in Benghazi after
the arrest of a human rights activistthe arrest of a human rights activist
Mar 2011 – UN authorizes a no-fly zone;Mar 2011 – UN authorizes a no-fly zone;
NATO airstrikes beginNATO airstrikes begin
Aug 2011 – Rebels enter TripoliAug 2011 – Rebels enter Tripoli
Oct 2011 – Moammar Gadhafi killed byOct 2011 – Moammar Gadhafi killed by
rebels in Sirterebels in Sirte
Sept 2012 – Al Qaeda in Islamic MahgrebSept 2012 – Al Qaeda in Islamic Mahgreb
(AQIM), Al-Qaida affiliate “Imprisoned Omar(AQIM), Al-Qaida affiliate “Imprisoned Omar
Abdul Rahman Brigades”, and AnsarAbdul Rahman Brigades”, and Ansar
alShariah attack US consulate and CIAalShariah attack US consulate and CIA
annes in Benghazi, killing Ambassadorannes in Benghazi, killing Ambassador
Christopher Stevens, Information OfficerChristopher Stevens, Information Officer
Sean Smith, embassy security personnelSean Smith, embassy security personnel
Glen Doherty and Tyrone Woods, andGlen Doherty and Tyrone Woods, and
injuring 10 othersinjuring 10 others
8686
87. BahrainBahrain
Jan - Feb 2011: weeks of protests inJan - Feb 2011: weeks of protests in
Bahrain are crushed by troops from SaudiBahrain are crushed by troops from Saudi
ArabiaArabia
Nov 2011 – King Hamad bin Isa Al KhalifaNov 2011 – King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa
promises reformspromises reforms
8787
88. YemenYemen
Feb 2011 – Protests in Yemen erupt then subsideFeb 2011 – Protests in Yemen erupt then subside
when President Ali Abdullah Saleh pledges not towhen President Ali Abdullah Saleh pledges not to
seek another termseek another term
June 2011 – Saleh injured in an explosion; goes toJune 2011 – Saleh injured in an explosion; goes to
Saudi Arabia for treatment but does not relinquishSaudi Arabia for treatment but does not relinquish
powerpower
Nov 2011 – Saleh steps down after 33 years; hisNov 2011 – Saleh steps down after 33 years; his
relatives and associates continue to hold powerrelatives and associates continue to hold power
Feb 2012 – Saleh transfers powers to former viceFeb 2012 – Saleh transfers powers to former vice
presidentpresident
8888
89. SyriaSyria
Muslim Brotherhood in Syria founded in the late 1930s. AfterMuslim Brotherhood in Syria founded in the late 1930s. After
the 1963 coup brought the Ba'ath Party to power, it was bannedthe 1963 coup brought the Ba'ath Party to power, it was banned
and became a resistance movement against Alawite Assadand became a resistance movement against Alawite Assad
regime. Armed struggle climaxed in the Hama uprising of 1982regime. Armed struggle climaxed in the Hama uprising of 1982
- thousands killed by the military, and membership in the- thousands killed by the military, and membership in the
Syrian Brotherhood became a capital offenceSyrian Brotherhood became a capital offence
March 2011 – protests erupt; the government of Bashar AssadMarch 2011 – protests erupt; the government of Bashar Assad
immediately responds with troopsimmediately responds with troops
Feb 2012 – government attacks rebels in HomsFeb 2012 – government attacks rebels in Homs
July 2012 – government massacres 225 in Tremseh; rebelJuly 2012 – government massacres 225 in Tremseh; rebel
bomb kills many of Assad’s top advisors; 200,000 refugeesbomb kills many of Assad’s top advisors; 200,000 refugees
have fled Syriahave fled Syria
Increasingly Al Qaeda, Islamists, and Salafists from across theIncreasingly Al Qaeda, Islamists, and Salafists from across the
Muslim world have swelled the ranks of rebel forces and call forMuslim world have swelled the ranks of rebel forces and call for
sharia law and an Islamic republic to replace Assadsharia law and an Islamic republic to replace Assad8989
90. MaliMali
Mar 2012 military junior officers launch a coup inMar 2012 military junior officers launch a coup in
protest to the government response to the rebel groupprotest to the government response to the rebel group
National Movement for the Liberation of AzawadNational Movement for the Liberation of Azawad
(MNLA)(MNLA)
Al Qaeda in the Islamic Magreb (AQIM), active sinceAl Qaeda in the Islamic Magreb (AQIM), active since
2007 in Mali, allied with MNLA then drove them out of2007 in Mali, allied with MNLA then drove them out of
northern Malinorthern Mali
AQIM, Ansar Dine, and Mauritanian offshoot of AQIMAQIM, Ansar Dine, and Mauritanian offshoot of AQIM
called MUJAO (Movement for Unity and Jihad in Westcalled MUJAO (Movement for Unity and Jihad in West
Africa), have imposed strict sharia law includingAfrica), have imposed strict sharia law including
stonings, amputations, and floggings; kidnapped andstonings, amputations, and floggings; kidnapped and
sometimes executed aid workers, businessmen, andsometimes executed aid workers, businessmen, and
tourists; recruited and armed children as young as 12tourists; recruited and armed children as young as 12
93. Sharia Law Is Coming To EuropeSharia Law Is Coming To Europe
PolygamyPolygamy
StoningsStonings
Persecution of JewsPersecution of Jews
RapesRapes
Banning of national flagsBanning of national flags
No more piggy banks or baconNo more piggy banks or bacon
No more custard conesNo more custard cones
Cannot fly British flag in prisonsCannot fly British flag in prisons
95. NorwayNorway
2006- Offensive statements about religion2006- Offensive statements about religion
became punishable by fine andbecame punishable by fine and
imprisonmentimprisonment
The accused is guilty until proven innocentThe accused is guilty until proven innocent
Oslo police afraid to crack down onOslo police afraid to crack down on
Islamist gangsIslamist gangs
Finn Graff, cartoonist, depicts Jews asFinn Graff, cartoonist, depicts Jews as
Nazis….afraid of IslamistsNazis….afraid of Islamists
96. EnglandEngland
Codie Scott, 14 y.o. arrested forCodie Scott, 14 y.o. arrested for
complaining that her fellow Pakistanicomplaining that her fellow Pakistani
students could not communicatestudents could not communicate
40% of Muslims want Sharia law40% of Muslims want Sharia law
70% refuse to condemn suicide bombers70% refuse to condemn suicide bombers
Ruth Kelly, GB communities secretary,Ruth Kelly, GB communities secretary,
considers Sharia law in Muslimconsiders Sharia law in Muslim
communitiescommunities
Shahadah- recitation
Salat= prayer (5 x a day)
Zakat= almsgiving (2.5% of annual income)
Sawm= fasting (Ramadan= abstain from eat, drink, smoke, sex from dawn to dusk)
Hajj = pilgrimage (once in lifetime all Muslims must journey to Mecca; pilgrims wear white robes and journey seven circuts of Ka’bah)
Mohammed Bouyeri murdered Van Gogh on Nov. 2, 2004, in Amsterdam, while he bicycled to work. He shot him eight times, and Van Gogh died on the spot. Bouyeri then cut Van Gogh's throat, nearly decapitating him, and stabbed him in the chest. Two knives were left implanted in his torso, one attaching a five-page note to his body. The note threatened Western governments, Jews and Ayaan Hirsi Ali (who went into hiding). The note also contained references to the ideologies of the Egyptian organization Takfir wal-Hijra. The killer, Mohammed Bouyeri, a 26-year-old Dutch citizen, was apprehended by the police after being shot in the leg. Although born in Amsterdam and well-educated, Bouyeri has alleged terrorist ties with the Dutch Hofstad Network. He was convicted on July 26, 2005 and sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole. Imam Fawaz of the as-Sunnah Mosque in The Hague gave a sermon several weeks before the murder in which he called Theo van Gogh, "a 'criminal bastard' and beseech[ed] Allah to visit an incurable disease upon the filmmaker.“
Mar. 11,2004 Madrid train bombings - a series of coordinated bombings against the commuter train system, three days before Spain's general elections. 191 killed; 1,755 wounded. The attacks were directed by an al-Qaeda-inspired terrorist cell although no direct al-Qaeda participation. Spanish nationals who sold the explosives to the terrorists were also arrested.
French Muslims complain that even though they are French citizens, native French always refer to them in ways that emphasize their foreign heritage. French law prohibits any displays of religion in schools including head scarves.
UK- Almost half of Britain’s mosques are under the control of a hard-line Islamic sect whose leading preacher loathes Western values and has called on Muslims to “shed blood” for Allah, an investigation by The Times has found. Riyadh ul Haq, who supports armed jihad and preaches contempt for Jews, Christians and Hindus, is in line to become the spiritual leader of the Deobandi sect in Britain. The ultra-conservative movement, which gave birth to the Taliban in Afghanistan, now runs more than 600 of Britain’s 1,350 mosques, according to a police report seen by The Times of London (Sept. 2007). The Times investigation casts serious doubts on government statements that foreign preachers are to blame for spreading the creed of radical Islam in Britain’s mosques and its policy of encouraging the recruitment of more “home-grown” preachers. Mr. ul Haq, 36, was educated and trained at an Islamic seminary in Britain and is part of a new generation of British imams who share a similar radical agenda. He heaps scorn on any Muslims who say they are “proud to be British” and argues that friendship with a Jew or a Christian makes “a mockery of Allah’s religion”. Seventeen of Britain’s 26 Islamic seminaries are run by Deobandis and they produce 80 per cent of home-trained Muslim clerics. Many had their studies funded by local education authority grants. The sect, which has significant representation on the Muslim Council of Britain, is at its strongest in the towns and cities of the Midlands and northern England.
The Dutch relationship with its 1 million people in the Muslim community has been under scrutiny since the murder of film-maker Theo van Gogh by an Islamic extremist in November 2004.
Oct. 16, 2009 Protesters rallied as anti-Islamic Dutch lawmaker Geert Wilders held a news conference in London Friday. Mr. Wilders, who made a controversial film about Islam, arrived in London after a ban against him entering Britain was overturned.
Roughly 5M Muslims in the U.S. accounting for about 1.6% of the U.S. population.
Largest segment is African-Americans (42% of U.S. Muslims); followed by south Asians (24%), then Arabs (12%). Other groups form 5% or less of the U.S. Muslim population.
Largest populations are in California (1M), New York (800K), Illinois (420K), and New Jersey (200K); Indiana, Michigan, Virginia, Texas and Ohio contain fewer than 200K each.
The U.S. has 843 mosques and 165 Islamic schools
Since Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution, there has been a steady rise in Islamist terrorism. Too many analysts underestimate the ideological basis of terrorism and argue instead that rational-strategic rather than ideological principles motivate Islamist terror groups. Comparison between terrorist groups with secular and religious agendas, however, suggests that ideology matters for both and that downplaying religious inspiration for terrorism in an effort to emphasize tactical motivations is both inaccurate and dangerous.
Al Qaeda in Iraq (AQI) is 90 percent Iraqi. Foreign fighters, predominate in the leadership and suicide bombers, of whom they comprise up to 90 percent. The AQI leader is Abu Ayyub al-Masri, an Egyptian. His predecessor, Abu Musab al Zarqawi, was a Jordanian.
AQI is part of the global al Qaeda movement both ideologically and practically. Ideologically, it lies on the extreme end of the takfiri spectrum. From its inception, AQI has targeted mainly Iraqis; it has killed many times more Muslims than Americans. Its preferred weapon is the suicide car-bomb/truck-bomb aimed at places where large numbers of Iraqi civilians, especially Shia, congregate. When the movement began in 2003 it primarily targeted Shia. Zarqawi sought to provoke a Shia-Sunni civil war that he expected would mobilize the Sunni to full-scale jihad. He also delighted in killing Shia, whom he saw as intolerable "rejectionists," who had received the message of the Koran and rejected it. The duty to convert or kill apostates supersedes even the duty to wage war against the regular unbeliever--hence -Zarqawi's insistence that the Shia were more dangerous than the "Zionists and Crusaders."
Zawahiri remonstrated with Zarqawi on this point in a series of exchanges that became public. He argued that Zarqawi erred in attacking Shia, who should rather be exhorted and enticed to join the larger movement he hoped to create. Zawahiri‘ has no objection to killing unfaithful Muslims, but he has been eager to focus the movement on what he calls the "far enemy," America and the West.
Zarqawi too pursued attacks on Western targets. He was implicated in the 2002 murder of USAID official Lawrence Foley in Jordan, and in the bombing of the United Nations office in Baghdad on August 19, 2003. But Zarqawi concentrated on attacking Iraqi Shia. A blast at the end of August 2003, for example, killed 85 Shia in Najaf, including Ayatollah Mohammed Baqir al-Hakim (older brother of Abd al-Aziz al-Hakim, the leader of the Supreme Iraqi Islamic Council, the largest Shia party in the Council of Representatives), and a series of attacks on Shia mosques during the Ashura holiday in March 2004 killed over 180. He finally succeeded in provoking a significant Shia backlash with the destruction of the golden dome of the Shia al-Askariyah Mosque in Samarra in February 2006. Zarqawi was killed by coalition forces shortly thereafter, but his successors continued to attack Iraqi Shia, even as they began to attack Iraqi Sunnis.
Oct. 2006: In Anbar province, the Anbar tribes that pledged to hunt al Qaeda in Iraq claimed to have killed a senior al Qaeda leader, captured several others, and forced more to flee across the Syrian border. “The council... said that members of their tribes killed four Al-Qaeda members, including a prominent leader in the network known as Abu Shujae Al-Yamani, during an armed confrontation in Sankoura town in western Iraq,” reports the Kuwaiti News Agency. “The council had declared earlier that two Al-Qaeda members were killed and six others were arrested and were handed over to the Iraqi authorities.” The tribes are openly declaring their allegiance to the Iraqi government and going on record about hunting, killing and capturing al Qaeda leaders and foot soldiers.
Al Masri entered Iraq in 2002 prior to the US invasion and established what is believed to be the first terror cell inside Baghdad. He is an experienced bomb maker, and built car bombs and trained other al Qaeda operatives in the techniques.
He was appointed the leader of the terror group in the summer of 2006 after US forces killed Abu Musab al Zarqawi. Al Masri attempted to unite disparate Sunni insurgent groups and the Sunni tribes in the Sunni-dominated province.
A close confidant of Ayman al Zawahiri, al Qaeda’s second in command, al Masri was a member of Egyptian Islamic Jihad, the group that folded into al Qaeda under Zawahiri’s leadership. Egyptian Islamic Jihad is a core element of al Qaeda and includes many former members of the Egyptian military.
Al Masri is officially listed as the minister of defense for the Islamic State of Iraq, according to a press release put out by the terror group in April 2007. But over the summer of 2007, it became known the Islamic State of Iraq was the invention of al Masri, who serves as the emir, or leader, of the group. Abu Omar al Baghdadi is actually a fictional character played by an Iraqi actor named Abu Abdullah al Naima. This information was revealed after the capture of Abu Muhammad al Mashadani, the former minister of information for the Islamic State of Iraq. Recently, an Iraqi police leader in Hadithah claimed Baghdadi was actually a former officer in Saddam Hussein’s army.
Al Qaeda established the Islamic State of Iraq in October of 2006 to put an Iraqi face on al Qaeda's operations in Iraq and unite the Sunni disparate elements of the insurgency. Al Qaeda claimed the Islamic State of Iraq comprises “Baghdad, Anbar, Diyala, Kirkuk, Salah al-Din, Ninawa, and ... other parts of the governorate of Babel.” The declaration of the Sunni Islamic State of Iraq followed the creation of the "Mutayibeen Coalition," which included six Anbar tribes, as well as three smaller insurgent groups. In mid-April 2007, Baghdadi named the ministers of the cabinet of the rump Islamic State of Iraq.