Islamic terrorism

Islamic terrorism is a form of religious terrorism carried out by fundamentalist militant Islamists and Islamic extremists. These groups aim to achieve political or religious goals, such as jihad and creating a caliphate.

Since the 1990s, attacks by these groups have happened around the world, affecting both Muslims and non-Muslims. Most of these incidents took place in Muslim-majority countries, where the majority of victims were also Muslim. The number of deaths from these attacks increased greatly between 2011 and 2014, then decreased by 2019.

Five groups — the Taliban, Islamic State, Boko Haram, al-Shabaab, and al-Qaeda — were responsible for most of the harm caused by these attacks. Many Muslim leaders and groups have spoken out against these actions.

Some who oppose the term "Islamic terrorism" say it can hurt relations within communities. They suggest calling it "Islamist terrorism" instead. The methods used by these groups can be very harmful and include kidnapping and attacks using different tools to cause harm.

Terminology

Some leaders and scholars have talked about how to describe certain kinds of harmful actions done by a few people. They believe it is important to use words that are fair and do not wrongly connect these actions to an entire religion. For example, former U.S. President Barack Obama talked about this in 2016, explaining why he used the word "terrorism" instead of other terms. He wanted to make sure people did not think these actions represented all Muslims around the world.

Experts have suggested careful use of words to avoid giving these groups more attention or making them seem like they speak for many people. This helps keep the discussion clear and respectful.

History

Since the 1990s, groups inspired by strict religious ideas have carried out many attacks around the world. These attacks have happened in many places, often targeting both people who follow the same religion and those who do not. Most of these attacks have taken place in countries where the majority of people follow this religion.

The years between 2001 and 2019 saw many such attacks, with thousands of people losing their lives. Even though many victims were from the same religious background as the attackers, these events have affected many nations. The number of deaths from these attacks has gone down in recent years, but some regions still see many incidents.

Attacker profiles and motivations

The reasons why people become involved in groups that use violence in the name of their beliefs have been studied by many experts. Some believe it comes from strict or extreme views of certain beliefs, while others think it may be linked to feelings of unfair treatment or a desire to change society.

One idea is that some people feel strongly about protecting their communities from outside influences. This can lead them to support groups that use violence to achieve their goals. Others suggest that personal experiences, such as feeling left out or facing difficulties, might push some individuals toward extreme actions.

Studies have looked at the backgrounds of people involved in such groups. In some cases, they come from families that are not very strict about their beliefs, and they may convert to the faith later in life. Others might feel disconnected from their home countries and seek a sense of purpose or belonging elsewhere.

Understanding these motivations helps experts and communities work on preventing violence and supporting at-risk individuals.

Refutations, criticisms and explanations for decline

Refuting Islamic terrorism

Many people have studied why some groups claim to act in the name of their faith. Scholars point out that these actions often go against the teachings of that faith. For example, some experts say that attacks on ordinary people, including families, are not allowed by the rules of their religion. These rules protect non-combatants and require clear warnings before any conflict.

Some researchers also note that those who support harmful actions sometimes leave out important parts of the faith’s teachings. They may focus only on parts that seem to support their views while ignoring other parts that call for peace and forgiveness.

Deradicalization

Main article: Deradicalization

Some groups that once used harmful actions have changed their ways. In Egypt, two large groups agreed to stop violence after discussions with religious leaders who explained that their actions went against their faith’s true meanings. These talks helped the groups understand that peace was the better path.

Muslim attitudes toward terrorism

Main article: Muslim attitudes towards terrorism

Many Muslims believe that hurting innocent people is wrong, no matter the reason. Scholars and leaders from many parts of the world have spoken out against groups that use violence. They say these actions go against the teachings of their faith.

Some Muslim teachers have shared their thoughts in writing, saying that violence like bombings and attacks are not allowed. Leaders in different countries have agreed, saying such actions are harmful and do not follow the rules of their beliefs. They stress that true faith does not support hurting others.

Tactics

Main article: Tactics of terrorism

Some groups have used different ways to try to achieve their goals. One way is by taking control of airplanes, like what happened during the events of September 11, 2001. Another way is by taking people captive to make others do what they want. These actions can be very scary for everyone involved.

These groups also use the internet to share messages and find new supporters. They create websites and social media pages to talk to young people and encourage them to join their cause. This helps them spread their ideas around the world.

Examples of organizations

Main article: List of Islamist terrorist attacks

Further information: List of designated terrorist groups

Different parts of the world have seen actions by groups that use extreme ideas to cause harm. In places like Africa, groups have created problems and unsafe conditions. Asia has had many incidents too, with various groups carrying out attacks in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan.

Europe has also faced serious incidents, including in Belgium, France, and Germany. The continent has seen many attacks over the years. In the Middle East, groups have been active in countries like Iraq, Palestine, and Turkey.

The Americas have not been immune either, with notable events in Canada, the United States, and Australia. Overall, these actions have affected many lives and created fear in communities around the world.

Main article: Al-Qaeda