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Osama Bin Laden Introduces "Al Qaeda"
In 1989, Osama Bin Laden - an Islamic nationalist - introduced and established the terrorist group Al Qaeda. This extremist group, located in Afghanistan and Pakistan, was considered to be the "base" for terrorism. Through Al Qaeda, Bin Laden aimed to teach extremists how to hijack, set off bombs, as well as fight, in an effort to eliminate Western influence in Muslim nations and crush Israel. Bin Laden redefined terrorism on a global aspect and thus, sparked a series of future wars worldwide. -
Osama Bin Laden Issues Fatwa
On February 23rd, Bin Laden, along with Al Qaeda, issues a fatwa, declaring that it is the duty of all Muslim citizens to kill those from the Western World. Bin Laden believed by doing so, he would be able to eliminate Western powers in the Arab Peninsula. This supported Bin Laden's Jihad - holy war - and efforts, while promoting Arab nationalism to eliminate a foreign power. This event furthered the growth of global terrorism, as Bin Laden desired to eliminate the U.S. and its allies. -
Al Qaeda Hits the "Heart" of America
On September 11th, Al Qaeda militants hijacked four planes in the U.S. The planes destroyed major buildings, such as the Twin Towers. The attacks led to the creation of stereotypes, in regards to Muslims living in the U.S. Al Qaeda took U.S. citizens and officials by surprise, when demonstrating its immense capability. The war against terrorism became the nation's top priority and military troops were deployed to eliminate those responsible. Even today, terrorism lies on the nation's radar. -
Al Qaeda Attacks a U.S. Ally
On March 11th, Al Qaeda attacked Madrid, by bombing commuter trains.The attack injured 1,800 people, and claimed 190 innocent lives. The violent act demonstrated Bin Laden's newly established goal: eliminate the United States' allies. Bin Laden hoped to scare countries, such as Britain, France, and Spain off, so that they would not aid the U.S. However, this further strengthened the bond between the U.S. and Spain in the fight against extremists. Terrorism is now truly seen on a global scale. -
Al Qaeda Suicide Bomber Destroys Heart of Yemen
A militant, linked to Al Qaeda, disguises himself as a soldier, solely to trick people in Yemen's capital, public square into believing he is an average citizen. In a quick period of time, he sets off a suicide bomb, killing and wounding hundreds of innocent civilians. This event set the United States back in its counterterrorism movement, as the U.S. had allied with Yemen, while decimating Yemen's governmental strength and morale. This was the deadliest attack Yemen has faced, in recent years.
