NCJ Number
121231
Date Published
1988
Length
44 pages
Annotation
This analysis examines the unique characteristics of the Middle East and the ideology, political objectives, structure, tactics, sources of support, and international linkages of the terrorist groups in the region.
Abstract
The discussion emphasizes that not all political violence taking place or emanating from the Middle East can properly be described as terrorism. In addition, although much of the terrorism has been linked by observers to the resurgence of Islam in the region since 1967, most Islamic activists have been no more extreme in their methods and goals than other political groups. Furthermore, social and economic changes and cultural factors are all important to an understanding of terrorism in the Middle East. Many perpetrators seem to be small, conspiratorial, and cabalistic groups linked by family ties, although individual contractors have often been involved. Motives include financial gain, achieving political goals based on ideological beliefs, and vengeance. In addition, Libya, Syria, and Iran have sponsored much of the terrorism, often using existing resentments for their own purposes. Nevertheless, it is important to recognize that terrorism and terrorists are not a unified whole, that terrorism is often given more attention than it deserves, and that major issues like the Palestine question and the future of Lebanon need attention. 126 reference notes.