Twenty-five years after the September 11 attacks, the United States has largely avoided major terrorist incidents from foreign organizations, but the global situation concerning Islamist terrorism remains alarming. This summary explores the success of American counterterrorism efforts against direct attacks and the continuing challenges posed by groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS.
1. Success in Preventing Major Attacks:
Since 9/11, there has been only one significant attack on U.S. soil by a foreign terrorist, the 2019 shooting at Naval Air Station Pensacola.
The U.S. has successfully implemented strategies from the 9/11 Commission and the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 to enhance national security.
2. Ongoing Islamist Threats:
Despite counterterrorism success, al-Qaeda and its affiliates have survived and expanded globally.
ISIS once claimed a vast territory in Iraq and Syria but has been ultimately defeated but continues to influence violence worldwide.
3. Ideological Persistence:
Both al-Qaeda and ISIS share an ideology that frames Muslim societies as under siege by outside forces, leading to a universal call for jihad.
Historical figures like Abdullah Azzam have shaped this ideology, promoting the idea that defending Islam is a personal obligation.
4. Organizational Strategies:
After the defeat of central leadership in al-Qaeda, authority shifted to regional affiliates, allowing them to continue operating effectively.
The decentralized structure has helped these groups withstand military losses while continuing their operations.
5. Differences Between Al-Qaeda and ISIS:
While they differ in tactical approaches, both groups share the goal of establishing a caliphate governed by Sharia law and reject democratic governance.
Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi accelerated bin Laden’s original vision by declaring a caliphate, highlighting a shared agenda despite their tactical differences.
6. Current Landscape:
The Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan has allowed al-Qaeda to regroup, raising concerns about the potential for future terrorist training and operations.
Groups like al-Shabaab in East Africa and affiliates of ISIS show that terrorism remains a global threat, with activity seen in multiple regions, including Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
While the United States has achieved significant success in preventing modern terrorist attacks, the broader battle against the ideology and organizations behind these attacks is ongoing. Al-Qaeda and ISIS continue to thrive, fostering an environment that may inspire future violence. Therefore, defeating the underlying movement that led to 9/11 remains an unresolved challenge.
https://www.city-journal.org/article/war-on-terror-taliban-al-qaeda-islam
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