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Deciphering Ayman Al-Zawahiri and Al-Qaeda’s strategic and ideological imperatives

Gohel, Sajjan M. (2017) Deciphering Ayman Al-Zawahiri and Al-Qaeda’s strategic and ideological imperatives. Perspectives on Terrorism, 11 (1). pp. 54-67. ISSN 2334-3745

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Abstract

This research paper explores the current strategic and ideological agenda of al-Qaeda leader, Ayman al- Zawahiri. To better understand how al-Zawahiri aims to retain international relevance, survival and sustainability, the paper assesses al-Zawahiri’s speeches and actions in recent years that articulate his world-view objectives. Importantly, this paper will argue that although the “Far Enemy” remains a priority, and will not be abandoned by al-Qaeda, al-Zawahiri has renewed the terrorist group’s emphasis on the “Near Enemy” and seeks to create safe bases across the Islamic world for al-Qaeda and its affiliates to function and grow. This paper will also illustrate that it would be naive to dismiss al-Zawahiri and al-Qaeda’s relevance as a global threat as the Egyptian is laying the foundations for al-Qaeda’s future. The paper also compares and contrasts al-Zawahiri’s historical motivations and how that fits into his current doctrine. Lastly, this paper dissects al-Zawahiri’s paradoxical nature and mixed messaging which could impact on al-Qaeda’s attempts to replenish the terrorist group’s ranks.

Item Type: Article
Official URL: http://www.terrorismanalysts.com/pt/index.php/pot/...
Additional Information: © 2017 The Author © CC BY 3.0
Divisions: International History
Subjects: J Political Science > JA Political science (General)
Date Deposited: 09 Feb 2018 16:50
Last Modified: 06 Apr 2024 05:21
URI: http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/86743

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