Despite the assumptions of some Western analysts, Islamic radicalism never was remotely close to being a personality cult centered around Osama. But just in case someone didn’t get the point, here is some information about some lesser-known but powerful terrorist leaders. From AP, with thanks to Peter Rockas:
From the dusty Sahara to the jungles of Indonesia and in the cauldron of unrest that is US-occupied Iraq, a new generation of Osama bin Ladens is emerging to take the place of elders who have been killed, captured or forced underground. The new class has already written a new history of terror in blood – from Istanbul to Madrid to Yanbu, Saudi Arabia.
‘These are the men that are the new 21st-century terrorists,’ said Mr Evan Kohlmann, a US-based terror expert.
At the fore of this group is 38-year-old Abu Musab Zarqawi, a former Osama commander who has links to terror groups from North Africa to the Caucasus.
If you thought being a terrorist might be a cushy career choice, you’re wrong.
Increased risk means the life expectancy of today’s generation of terrorists will probably be short.
‘But these guys don’t care,’ said Mr Evans, of Jane’s. ‘They consider themselves to be the first members of the new Islamic vanguard. There will be plenty more Zarqawis bubbling up to the surface.’
Why? Not just because of American policy. There were Zarqawis long before there was a United States of America.