America’s Endless Wars
When I was a child the world was at war. They called it World War II since it was the second great war to befall the world in the first half of the Twentieth Century. The United States emerged the great victor of that war. Everybody cheered. I remember whistles blowing, church bells ringing and people milling about on the streets. I think we dreamed that it was the end of war and since the United States was the winning nation, we could make sure there would never be another war like that again. We trusted our leadership in those days.
When I was a child the world was at war. They called it World War II since it was the second great war to befall the world in the first half of the Twentieth Century. The United States emerged the great victor of that war. Everybody cheered. I remember whistles blowing, church bells ringing and people milling about on the streets. I think we dreamed that it was the end of war and since the United States was the winning nation, we could make sure there would never be another war like that again. We trusted our leadership in those days.
Over 20 Million Killed In U.S. “Police Actions” Since 1945
A sobering report by James A. Lucas that appeared in Popular Resistance in 2015 notes that between the end of World War II and the date of the Lucas writing, an estimated total of over 20 million people in nations all over the world have died under the guns and bombs of the U.S. Industrial Military Complex. With continued military action in the Middle East, Africa and other parts of the world, the death count has been rising steadily ever since the Lucas report. Both the Obama and Trump Administrations have carried out drone strikes against ISIS and al Qaeda rebels in Syria, Iraq, Pakistan, Yemen and parts of Africa that have left thousands of civilians dead in their wake. Now as we celebrate Memorial Day in America, war drums are sounding in the Far East and in South America.
A sobering report by James A. Lucas that appeared in Popular Resistance in 2015 notes that between the end of World War II and the date of the Lucas writing, an estimated total of over 20 million people in nations all over the world have died under the guns and bombs of the U.S. Industrial Military Complex. With continued military action in the Middle East, Africa and other parts of the world, the death count has been rising steadily ever since the Lucas report. Both the Obama and Trump Administrations have carried out drone strikes against ISIS and al Qaeda rebels in Syria, Iraq, Pakistan, Yemen and parts of Africa that have left thousands of civilians dead in their wake. Now as we celebrate Memorial Day in America, war drums are sounding in the Far East and in South America.
Longing For The End Of War
The late President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who led the United States through the most turbulent war in world history, once said: "If civilization is to survive, we must cultivate the science of human relationships – the ability of all peoples, of all kinds, to live together in the same world at peace." Roosevelt knew, as did most people in the world at the end of World War II, that humanity could not endure another great war of that magnitude. World leaders attempted desperately to head off further wars in 1918, after the first "Great War" was ended, by forming the North Atlantic Treaty Organization representing the nations of Europe and the Americas. Later emerged the United Nations. This was an alliance of the most powerful countries in the world. Both were attempts by governments to find a way to "get-along" and stop wars before they started.
The late President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who led the United States through the most turbulent war in world history, once said: "If civilization is to survive, we must cultivate the science of human relationships – the ability of all peoples, of all kinds, to live together in the same world at peace." Roosevelt knew, as did most people in the world at the end of World War II, that humanity could not endure another great war of that magnitude. World leaders attempted desperately to head off further wars in 1918, after the first "Great War" was ended, by forming the North Atlantic Treaty Organization representing the nations of Europe and the Americas. Later emerged the United Nations. This was an alliance of the most powerful countries in the world. Both were attempts by governments to find a way to "get-along" and stop wars before they started.
Is The Afghan Fighting About The Gold?
Afghanistan appears on world maps as a nation with borders, but in reality it is a vast land occupied by many tribes. United States troops have been at war there for the past decade. Before that the Russians were fighting the tribes. Looking back into history, Afghanistan has been an almost constant battleground at least since Alexander the Great invaded in 330 BC and probably long before this. We went in that battle zone after 9-11 and our forces are still there. The question is . . . why?
Afghanistan appears on world maps as a nation with borders, but in reality it is a vast land occupied by many tribes. United States troops have been at war there for the past decade. Before that the Russians were fighting the tribes. Looking back into history, Afghanistan has been an almost constant battleground at least since Alexander the Great invaded in 330 BC and probably long before this. We went in that battle zone after 9-11 and our forces are still there. The question is . . . why?
Will Robots Fight Our Next Great War?
Elon Musk, a man deeply entrenched in artificial intelligent research, and many of his cohorts are asking this very question. In fact, Musk, Apple’s Steve Wozniak, Google executive Demis H assabis and e ven the late physicist Stephen Hawking joined a group of over 1,000 experts and robotics researchers in 2015 to sign an open letter calling for a ban on military AI development and autonomous weapons.Military strategists may argue that using robots capable of making intelligent decisions into front-line battle might make the battlefield a safer way to fight a war. But think about that for a moment. Robots that can think fast enough to win a war, likely out-think the very men who invented them, and possess the capability of reason, will waste no time in turning against their creators.
Elon Musk, a man deeply entrenched in artificial intelligent research, and many of his cohorts are asking this very question. In fact, Musk, Apple’s Steve Wozniak, Google executive Demis H assabis and e ven the late physicist Stephen Hawking joined a group of over 1,000 experts and robotics researchers in 2015 to sign an open letter calling for a ban on military AI development and autonomous weapons.Military strategists may argue that using robots capable of making intelligent decisions into front-line battle might make the battlefield a safer way to fight a war. But think about that for a moment. Robots that can think fast enough to win a war, likely out-think the very men who invented them, and possess the capability of reason, will waste no time in turning against their creators.
Retired Military Expert; “Preventative Military Strikes” Never Succeed.
With all of the saber rattling and war threats coming out of the White House over North Korea's development of nuclear weaponry, much like the rhetoric from the Bush Administration prior to our attack on Iraq, we wonder if it has occurred to our military leaders how dangerous “first strike” military confrontations have been throughout history. We won't even ask the question for Mr. Trump to answer. We are quite sure he has no concept of the significance to historical reference.
With all of the saber rattling and war threats coming out of the White House over North Korea's development of nuclear weaponry, much like the rhetoric from the Bush Administration prior to our attack on Iraq, we wonder if it has occurred to our military leaders how dangerous “first strike” military confrontations have been throughout history. We won't even ask the question for Mr. Trump to answer. We are quite sure he has no concept of the significance to historical reference.
The Idiocy Of Staging Wars That Cannot Be Won
Just after 9-11, when George W. Bush launched his “war on terrorism,” we expressed a concern about the rash of so-called national wars against ideologies that lead down endless tunnels and never finding completion. The thought then, and it has not changed one iota since, is that the war on terror looks much like America’s drug war, launched by the Nixon Administration. The problem is that these are not wars at all. They are political assaults against invisible enemies.
Just after 9-11, when George W. Bush launched his “war on terrorism,” we expressed a concern about the rash of so-called national wars against ideologies that lead down endless tunnels and never finding completion. The thought then, and it has not changed one iota since, is that the war on terror looks much like America’s drug war, launched by the Nixon Administration. The problem is that these are not wars at all. They are political assaults against invisible enemies.
Understanding That Complex Syrian War
The U.S. corporate media is not telling us the truth about the strange conflict occurring in Syria. That may be because American reporters are too busy staying on top of the insane national political events. But it may also be because nobody can quite understand the complexities of one of the strangest and perhaps most dangerous military conflicts seen since World War II.
The U.S. corporate media is not telling us the truth about the strange conflict occurring in Syria. That may be because American reporters are too busy staying on top of the insane national political events. But it may also be because nobody can quite understand the complexities of one of the strangest and perhaps most dangerous military conflicts seen since World War II.
Trump May Be Blundering The World Into War
April 7, 2017
So Mr. Trump is now playing war games with the world. Last night two U.S. Navy warships, the USS Porter and USS Ross fired 59 tomahawk cruise missiles into the Syrian airbase at Shayrat; a base believed to be the origin of the chemical assault on rebel territory in that country’s bloody civil war. The outcome of that attack is still to be learned. Because of his bungling, and because he is turning over the affairs of U.S. foreign policy over to unqualified people including his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, the United States has been taking steps that could easily generate all-out warfare with North Korea, Syria and stir fierce terrorist attacks from throughout the Middle East.
April 7, 2017
So Mr. Trump is now playing war games with the world. Last night two U.S. Navy warships, the USS Porter and USS Ross fired 59 tomahawk cruise missiles into the Syrian airbase at Shayrat; a base believed to be the origin of the chemical assault on rebel territory in that country’s bloody civil war. The outcome of that attack is still to be learned. Because of his bungling, and because he is turning over the affairs of U.S. foreign policy over to unqualified people including his son-in-law, Jared Kushner, the United States has been taking steps that could easily generate all-out warfare with North Korea, Syria and stir fierce terrorist attacks from throughout the Middle East.
Ezekiel's Gog And Magog Prophecy
A Montana writer once linked joint military exercises between Russian and Chinese troops with the Old Testament prophecy in the Book of Ezekiel that pits the forces of Gog and Magog against Israel in the end times. This is one of the great fallacies in the Christian Bible, that Israel is the center of the world, that the Israelis are the chosen people of God, and that a final apocalyptic battle will be focused on that little dot of a nation in the Middle East. We take a close look at that troubling prophetic message and what it may really mean for the world.
A Montana writer once linked joint military exercises between Russian and Chinese troops with the Old Testament prophecy in the Book of Ezekiel that pits the forces of Gog and Magog against Israel in the end times. This is one of the great fallacies in the Christian Bible, that Israel is the center of the world, that the Israelis are the chosen people of God, and that a final apocalyptic battle will be focused on that little dot of a nation in the Middle East. We take a close look at that troubling prophetic message and what it may really mean for the world.
Ancient Prophetic Visions Of Nuclear Bombs
There is a world prophetic warning about angelic trumpets that will sound to announce the end of days in the world as we know it. Best known are the verses in the Book of the Revelation that speak of the angels blowing seven trumpets . . . each trumpet bringing a new rash of death and destruction upon the world. The Qu'ran contains numerous warnings about trumpets that bring disaster to the Earth. The aboriginal people also speak of such things. There is a Hopi prophecy about a gourd of ashes that appears in the last days. When you think about it, every photograph we have of nuclear explosions show a force the follows a long relatively straight flow of energy moving directly upward before it flares outward into what we have referred to as the "mushroom shape" at the top.
There is a world prophetic warning about angelic trumpets that will sound to announce the end of days in the world as we know it. Best known are the verses in the Book of the Revelation that speak of the angels blowing seven trumpets . . . each trumpet bringing a new rash of death and destruction upon the world. The Qu'ran contains numerous warnings about trumpets that bring disaster to the Earth. The aboriginal people also speak of such things. There is a Hopi prophecy about a gourd of ashes that appears in the last days. When you think about it, every photograph we have of nuclear explosions show a force the follows a long relatively straight flow of energy moving directly upward before it flares outward into what we have referred to as the "mushroom shape" at the top.
International Court Examining U.S. War Crimes
At long last the International Criminal Court in The Hague (ICC) is considering war crimes charges against United States military and government leaders for torture and other offenses committed in the Middle East. The center of attention will in Afghanistan which joined the ICC in 2003.
At long last the International Criminal Court in The Hague (ICC) is considering war crimes charges against United States military and government leaders for torture and other offenses committed in the Middle East. The center of attention will in Afghanistan which joined the ICC in 2003.
Terrorism: The False Generation Of Domestic Fear
The whole concept of terrorism is not new. What is new about the current "War On Terrorism," launched by the Bush Administration after the 9-11 attacks has been the virtual size and scope of the government generated counter-attacks. The United States has turned itself into an international bully with its guns trained against entire nations deemed "guilty" of financing and supporting terrorist bombing attacks against American targets both at home and abroad. In the eyes of the world, we have, ourselves, become the great world terrorist.
The whole concept of terrorism is not new. What is new about the current "War On Terrorism," launched by the Bush Administration after the 9-11 attacks has been the virtual size and scope of the government generated counter-attacks. The United States has turned itself into an international bully with its guns trained against entire nations deemed "guilty" of financing and supporting terrorist bombing attacks against American targets both at home and abroad. In the eyes of the world, we have, ourselves, become the great world terrorist.
War Crimes Allowed For The Victors
Ever since the infamous Nuremburg Trials against Nazi leadership following World War II, the world has established a strange lop-sided concept of “war crimes.” They appear to only be committed by the losing combatants. An international court at The Hague spend years trying Slobodan Milosevic, former Serbian leader, and some of the other top leaders, for so-called atrocities committed against Kosovo Albanian civilians during the Balkan civil wars in the 1990s. In the midst of the Iraq conflict, a special court was established by the American puppet government to try and eventually execute former Iraq dictator Saddam Hussein for crimes he allegedly committed against the people during his dictatorial reign.
Ever since the infamous Nuremburg Trials against Nazi leadership following World War II, the world has established a strange lop-sided concept of “war crimes.” They appear to only be committed by the losing combatants. An international court at The Hague spend years trying Slobodan Milosevic, former Serbian leader, and some of the other top leaders, for so-called atrocities committed against Kosovo Albanian civilians during the Balkan civil wars in the 1990s. In the midst of the Iraq conflict, a special court was established by the American puppet government to try and eventually execute former Iraq dictator Saddam Hussein for crimes he allegedly committed against the people during his dictatorial reign.
India’s Mohammadi Mujahideen
Police in India’s State of Andhra Pradesh and adjoining Maharashtra were worried in January 2000 that they also had a terrorist group on their hands. There were bombing incidents at two movie theaters and a sweets shop. The bombs had all been made from potassium nitrate, potassium permanganate, aluminum power and sugar. The following month a note arrived at a newspaper office in Hyderabad that confirmed their worst fears. It announced the formation of the Indian Muslim Mohammadi Mujahideen (IMMM). It said the organization was “committed to eradicate the western culture from India.”
Police in India’s State of Andhra Pradesh and adjoining Maharashtra were worried in January 2000 that they also had a terrorist group on their hands. There were bombing incidents at two movie theaters and a sweets shop. The bombs had all been made from potassium nitrate, potassium permanganate, aluminum power and sugar. The following month a note arrived at a newspaper office in Hyderabad that confirmed their worst fears. It announced the formation of the Indian Muslim Mohammadi Mujahideen (IMMM). It said the organization was “committed to eradicate the western culture from India.”
Trump Is Right About What We Did In Iraq
GOP frontrunner Donald Trump took a slap from Hillary Clinton’s campaign advisor Jake Sullivan this week after Trump said it was a serious mistake removing Iraq Dictator Saddam Hussein from power. While acknowledging that Hussein “was a bad guy,” Mr. Trump noted that the former dictator was an efficient killer of “terrorists” and that by forcing him out of power during our 2003 invasion of Iraq we have destabilized that area of the world.
GOP frontrunner Donald Trump took a slap from Hillary Clinton’s campaign advisor Jake Sullivan this week after Trump said it was a serious mistake removing Iraq Dictator Saddam Hussein from power. While acknowledging that Hussein “was a bad guy,” Mr. Trump noted that the former dictator was an efficient killer of “terrorists” and that by forcing him out of power during our 2003 invasion of Iraq we have destabilized that area of the world.
The Atomic Bombing of Japan Was Unnecessary
As far as we know, the United States is the only nation in the world that has ever used atomic weaponry during warfare. We have done this in at least two different wars, and possibly even against ourselves if we count the explosives used under the World Trade Center in 2001. And it was never necessary, only considered politically expedient, in every occasion.
As far as we know, the United States is the only nation in the world that has ever used atomic weaponry during warfare. We have done this in at least two different wars, and possibly even against ourselves if we count the explosives used under the World Trade Center in 2001. And it was never necessary, only considered politically expedient, in every occasion.
The Jesuits, Opium And The Vietnam War
The Vietnam War has remained among the most unexplained and misunderstood military conflicts of the Twentieth Century. The United States lost over 58,000 troops and left another 1,724 “missing in action.” Another 303,600 were left wounded in battle. It was an extremely unpopular war at home so when American forces withdrew, coming home in apparent defeat, there was a silent sense of shame. The Union had never lost a war before Vietnam. We review what really happened and why the U.S. got so involved in what began as an attempt to unite the country.
The Vietnam War has remained among the most unexplained and misunderstood military conflicts of the Twentieth Century. The United States lost over 58,000 troops and left another 1,724 “missing in action.” Another 303,600 were left wounded in battle. It was an extremely unpopular war at home so when American forces withdrew, coming home in apparent defeat, there was a silent sense of shame. The Union had never lost a war before Vietnam. We review what really happened and why the U.S. got so involved in what began as an attempt to unite the country.
All Nations Must Give Up Their Nukes
Einstein’s great formula: E=MC² became the catalyst for the development of the atomic bomb during the height of World War II. As research teams in the United States were racing to invent such a bomb, it was known through intelligence that German scientists were doing the same thing. The grim fact was that the first army to get a working bomb was going to win the war. Now this bomb is in the possession of many nations. That we invented such a heinous weapon has forced humanity into a stranglehold. Either we advance ourselves into a civilized society or we continue to behave like animals and eventually annihilate ourselves.
Einstein’s great formula: E=MC² became the catalyst for the development of the atomic bomb during the height of World War II. As research teams in the United States were racing to invent such a bomb, it was known through intelligence that German scientists were doing the same thing. The grim fact was that the first army to get a working bomb was going to win the war. Now this bomb is in the possession of many nations. That we invented such a heinous weapon has forced humanity into a stranglehold. Either we advance ourselves into a civilized society or we continue to behave like animals and eventually annihilate ourselves.
ISIS Acts Violate the Quran
We came upon an open letter signed by a long list of Sunni scholars and political leaders from throughout the Middle East, addressed to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the self-declared leader of the Islamic State. The letter explains in great detail why the deadly acts of the Islamic State rebels and many declarations by “leaders” of the organization violate the Holy Quran.
We came upon an open letter signed by a long list of Sunni scholars and political leaders from throughout the Middle East, addressed to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the self-declared leader of the Islamic State. The letter explains in great detail why the deadly acts of the Islamic State rebels and many declarations by “leaders” of the organization violate the Holy Quran.
Is ISIS A False Flag Military Trick?
As the U.S. military gets more involved in the affairs of Iraq and Syria, and the media devotes more space than usual to the deadly March 22 Brussels bombings, conspiracy theorists are ablaze on the Internet with theories that the Islamic State terrorists are a false flag trick possibly created by the CIA. The purpose of doing it would be to extend the so-called “War on Terror” and assure that the Pentagon’s Industrial military complex will remain heavily financed, even if 2016 elections steer the nation into a more non-military posture. Let’s face it. War is big business.
As the U.S. military gets more involved in the affairs of Iraq and Syria, and the media devotes more space than usual to the deadly March 22 Brussels bombings, conspiracy theorists are ablaze on the Internet with theories that the Islamic State terrorists are a false flag trick possibly created by the CIA. The purpose of doing it would be to extend the so-called “War on Terror” and assure that the Pentagon’s Industrial military complex will remain heavily financed, even if 2016 elections steer the nation into a more non-military posture. Let’s face it. War is big business.
Erasing the History of Mesopotamia
With the Iraq death toll from the 2003 U.S. and UK invasion pressing 300,000 and counting the case for international criminal charges against former President George W. Bush and the UK’s Tony Blair is strong. But there is still another part of this wicked deed that has been somewhat overlooked by the public at large. Military forces went out of their way to destroy and erase important archaeological sites that contained the historical record of Mesopotamia, believed by many to be a primary root of human civilization.
With the Iraq death toll from the 2003 U.S. and UK invasion pressing 300,000 and counting the case for international criminal charges against former President George W. Bush and the UK’s Tony Blair is strong. But there is still another part of this wicked deed that has been somewhat overlooked by the public at large. Military forces went out of their way to destroy and erase important archaeological sites that contained the historical record of Mesopotamia, believed by many to be a primary root of human civilization.
A Side-Effect Of War - Trained Killers In Our Midst
We are taking kids right out of high school, sending them to boot camp where their morale is broken and they emerge as trained killing machines. When we train young boys to kill like that, and then send them into months of combat in a place like Iraq, where they are on the front lines of war both day and night, only getting a chance to return to a relatively save place "behind the front lines" for a beer and a night of rest before going out again, we should not be surprised at their behavior after they return home.
We are taking kids right out of high school, sending them to boot camp where their morale is broken and they emerge as trained killing machines. When we train young boys to kill like that, and then send them into months of combat in a place like Iraq, where they are on the front lines of war both day and night, only getting a chance to return to a relatively save place "behind the front lines" for a beer and a night of rest before going out again, we should not be surprised at their behavior after they return home.
Faster Than A Speeding Bullet
Look Out World – “Hypersonic” Strike Weapons Are Coming
China’s announcement in November of a successful test flight of an ultra-fast maneuvering strike weapon – the DF-ZF hypersonic glide vehicle, launched from a ballistic missile after it had been fired, appears to have opened the door to a new world horror. It seems that Russia and the United States also are developing hypersonic weapons capable of delivering nuclear warheads anywhere in the world in minutes. Reaching unbelievable speeds of over 7,000 miles per hour, these new weapons can reach the other side of the world within minutes. This means that the next world war could be fought and concluded in less than a day, if military leaders are so foolish to ever decide to push the button.
China’s announcement in November of a successful test flight of an ultra-fast maneuvering strike weapon – the DF-ZF hypersonic glide vehicle, launched from a ballistic missile after it had been fired, appears to have opened the door to a new world horror. It seems that Russia and the United States also are developing hypersonic weapons capable of delivering nuclear warheads anywhere in the world in minutes. Reaching unbelievable speeds of over 7,000 miles per hour, these new weapons can reach the other side of the world within minutes. This means that the next world war could be fought and concluded in less than a day, if military leaders are so foolish to ever decide to push the button.
The Dalai Lama’s War Message
I am especially moved by a message on the Dalai Lama’s website, titled The Reality of War, in which he addresses the way humanity is being consistently brainwashed to believe in the glory of combat. He wrote: “Most of us have been conditioned to regard military combat as exciting and glamorous - an opportunity for men to prove their competence and courage. Since armies are legal, we feel that war is acceptable; in general, nobody feels that war is criminal or that accepting it is criminal attitude. In fact, we have been brainwashed. War is neither glamorous nor attractive. It is monstrous. Its very nature is one of tragedy and suffering.”
I am especially moved by a message on the Dalai Lama’s website, titled The Reality of War, in which he addresses the way humanity is being consistently brainwashed to believe in the glory of combat. He wrote: “Most of us have been conditioned to regard military combat as exciting and glamorous - an opportunity for men to prove their competence and courage. Since armies are legal, we feel that war is acceptable; in general, nobody feels that war is criminal or that accepting it is criminal attitude. In fact, we have been brainwashed. War is neither glamorous nor attractive. It is monstrous. Its very nature is one of tragedy and suffering.”
Is Opium Behind The Long Afghan War?
America’s open warfare in the Middle East began with an attack on Afghanistan in 2001, in apparent retaliation after the 9-11 attack. The nation was led to believe that Osama bin Laden and his Sunni militant Islamist organization known as al-Qaeda plotted the attack in Kabul, Afghanistan. The attack stirred the nation to action. We behaved like a hive of angry hornets. The moment we thought we had a target, we swarmed off in support of President George W. Bush’s call to send military forces into Afghanistan to hunt down the al-Qaeda and take quick revenge. We are still there even though Bin Laden and the al-Qaeda have been gone for years. Does that country's major crop, the poppy flower, have anything to do with it?
America’s open warfare in the Middle East began with an attack on Afghanistan in 2001, in apparent retaliation after the 9-11 attack. The nation was led to believe that Osama bin Laden and his Sunni militant Islamist organization known as al-Qaeda plotted the attack in Kabul, Afghanistan. The attack stirred the nation to action. We behaved like a hive of angry hornets. The moment we thought we had a target, we swarmed off in support of President George W. Bush’s call to send military forces into Afghanistan to hunt down the al-Qaeda and take quick revenge. We are still there even though Bin Laden and the al-Qaeda have been gone for years. Does that country's major crop, the poppy flower, have anything to do with it?
Why The Massive Wave Of World Terrorism?
When we think of the Bush War On Terrorism we tend to think of the major terrorist organizations like ISIS, al Qaeda in the Middle East, Hizballah and Hamas in the Israeli/Palestinian conflict and more recently Boko Haram in Nigeria, Africa. These are the groups that have been making headlines in the last year or two. But there are many more of them. Terror organizations seem to be springing up like mushrooms everywhere. We will be studying some of them. A series posted under "Terrorism" attempts to explain who they are and why they came into existence.
When we think of the Bush War On Terrorism we tend to think of the major terrorist organizations like ISIS, al Qaeda in the Middle East, Hizballah and Hamas in the Israeli/Palestinian conflict and more recently Boko Haram in Nigeria, Africa. These are the groups that have been making headlines in the last year or two. But there are many more of them. Terror organizations seem to be springing up like mushrooms everywhere. We will be studying some of them. A series posted under "Terrorism" attempts to explain who they are and why they came into existence.
The Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO)
Series Part 2
There appears to be primary motivations behind the modern terrorist movements. They involve revenge, ethnic cleansing, religious differences, differences in political ideologies and conflicts over land ownership. Some of these issues overlap as multiple complex driving forces behind some terrorist groups. All involve intense hatred driven into the minds of active terrorists, sometimes dating back for generations. The latter appears to be among the motivational causes of the rise in terrorist activity now imprisoning the Middle East.
Series Part 2
There appears to be primary motivations behind the modern terrorist movements. They involve revenge, ethnic cleansing, religious differences, differences in political ideologies and conflicts over land ownership. Some of these issues overlap as multiple complex driving forces behind some terrorist groups. All involve intense hatred driven into the minds of active terrorists, sometimes dating back for generations. The latter appears to be among the motivational causes of the rise in terrorist activity now imprisoning the Middle East.
Fatah: Early Palestinian Militants
(Third In Series)
Even before there was the PLO in Palestine, there was a militant organization known as the Fatah. Like the PLO, its original purpose was as a political movement representing the Palestinians in conflicts with the Israelis when it came into existence in 1959. Fatah, which is an Arabic word signifying "conquer" or "victory," grew from early armed struggles remembered as the 1936-1939 Arab Revolt in Palestine and the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. Its motive was always the liberation of Palestine.
(Third In Series)
Even before there was the PLO in Palestine, there was a militant organization known as the Fatah. Like the PLO, its original purpose was as a political movement representing the Palestinians in conflicts with the Israelis when it came into existence in 1959. Fatah, which is an Arabic word signifying "conquer" or "victory," grew from early armed struggles remembered as the 1936-1939 Arab Revolt in Palestine and the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. Its motive was always the liberation of Palestine.
The Lebanese Hezbollah Organization
(Part 4 In A Series)
Hezbollah came into existence because of the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982. It was primarily composed of 1,500 Iranian Revolutionary Guards, led by followers of the late Ayatollah Khomeini, who entered Lebanon with permission from the Syrian government to help drive the Israelis out of Lebanon. During the 12 long years of conflict that followed, Hezbollah evolved as both a military and political force, eventually becoming an organization with seats in the Lebanese government, programs for training fighters beyond Lebanon’s borders, and even operating its own radio and satellite television station.
(Part 4 In A Series)
Hezbollah came into existence because of the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982. It was primarily composed of 1,500 Iranian Revolutionary Guards, led by followers of the late Ayatollah Khomeini, who entered Lebanon with permission from the Syrian government to help drive the Israelis out of Lebanon. During the 12 long years of conflict that followed, Hezbollah evolved as both a military and political force, eventually becoming an organization with seats in the Lebanese government, programs for training fighters beyond Lebanon’s borders, and even operating its own radio and satellite television station.
Hamas; Palestine’s Benevolent Militants
Like the Hezbollah, the Hamas organization, founded in 1987 by the Sunni Muslims with the intent of eradicating Israel from what is perceived as Palestinian territory, has slowly evolved from strict militants to include a political force that offers social benefits to its members. While always having the teeth for warfare against Israel when deemed necessary, Hamas has shown its duality to a point where some analysis’s perceive it to be two separate organizations.
Like the Hezbollah, the Hamas organization, founded in 1987 by the Sunni Muslims with the intent of eradicating Israel from what is perceived as Palestinian territory, has slowly evolved from strict militants to include a political force that offers social benefits to its members. While always having the teeth for warfare against Israel when deemed necessary, Hamas has shown its duality to a point where some analysis’s perceive it to be two separate organizations.
The Houthis At War In Yemen
The Houthis are comprised of yet another Islamic radical Islamic religious group known as Zaidi. They are headquartered in Sadah, Yemen, in a nation strategically located south of Saudi Arabia on the southern end of the Red Sea and north of the Gulf of Aden. The Houthis are comprised of an estimated 100,000 fighters engaged in what probably is among the most complex civil wars to have ever occurred. We have six different militant groups all at war and fighting for control of Yemen. Of course the United States is involved in the mess. We have had forces there carrying out drone strikes against the al-Qaeda network.
The Houthis are comprised of yet another Islamic radical Islamic religious group known as Zaidi. They are headquartered in Sadah, Yemen, in a nation strategically located south of Saudi Arabia on the southern end of the Red Sea and north of the Gulf of Aden. The Houthis are comprised of an estimated 100,000 fighters engaged in what probably is among the most complex civil wars to have ever occurred. We have six different militant groups all at war and fighting for control of Yemen. Of course the United States is involved in the mess. We have had forces there carrying out drone strikes against the al-Qaeda network.
Deadly Jihadists Boko Haram
Among the most noticed and currently operating terrorist Islamic organizations is Boko Haram, a violent militant group operating in Northern Nigeria. This gang is robbing banks, kidnapping young women for sex slavery, and attacking and murdering men, women and children in entire villages. Boko Haram, which has been operating since 2002, is believed to have up to 10,000 soldiers in its ranks. It recently pledged alliance to ISIL, which formally accepted the group within its ranks in March of this year, 2015.
Among the most noticed and currently operating terrorist Islamic organizations is Boko Haram, a violent militant group operating in Northern Nigeria. This gang is robbing banks, kidnapping young women for sex slavery, and attacking and murdering men, women and children in entire villages. Boko Haram, which has been operating since 2002, is believed to have up to 10,000 soldiers in its ranks. It recently pledged alliance to ISIL, which formally accepted the group within its ranks in March of this year, 2015.
The Heinous ISIS Destruction of Nimrud
That the militant Islamic fundamental organization ISIL seeks to stir a final world conflict and thus force the return of Jesus in the clouds appears to be the goal. There seems to be no other rational reasoning behind the malicious actions of the hooded members of this deadly organization. Not only are these goons capturing and murdering innocent civilians of various religious faiths, proclaiming them "infidels," but now they are alarming historians and archaeologists by bulldozing ancient ruins of once great cities that once comprised the heart of ancient civilization. The destruction of the remains of the City of Nimrud is significant.
That the militant Islamic fundamental organization ISIL seeks to stir a final world conflict and thus force the return of Jesus in the clouds appears to be the goal. There seems to be no other rational reasoning behind the malicious actions of the hooded members of this deadly organization. Not only are these goons capturing and murdering innocent civilians of various religious faiths, proclaiming them "infidels," but now they are alarming historians and archaeologists by bulldozing ancient ruins of once great cities that once comprised the heart of ancient civilization. The destruction of the remains of the City of Nimrud is significant.
Al-Shabab; Young Somalian Terrorists
When we think of terrorist activities in Somalia we think of the pirates who are seizing commercial ships traveling the West African coast. But the pirates are just that; pirates. They appear to have no links with the Islamic extremists operating throughout the Somalian countryside. One of the more pronounced Islamic terror groups goes by the name Harakat al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen, or the common name: “al-Shabaab.” The Arabic name is translated in English to mean “Mujahideen Youth Movement.” It is a radical group of Sufi believers that promote the Wahhabi version of Islam, imposing a strict version of Sharia law in areas under its control. This includes stoning to death women accused of adultery, amputating the hands of thieves, and beheading Christians and displaying their corpses alongside Bibles. Al Shabaab has its main base in Somalia but has spread its attacks into Kenya and Yemen. In recent years the group has formed links with al-Qaeda and Boko Haram in Nigeria.
When we think of terrorist activities in Somalia we think of the pirates who are seizing commercial ships traveling the West African coast. But the pirates are just that; pirates. They appear to have no links with the Islamic extremists operating throughout the Somalian countryside. One of the more pronounced Islamic terror groups goes by the name Harakat al-Shabaab al-Mujahideen, or the common name: “al-Shabaab.” The Arabic name is translated in English to mean “Mujahideen Youth Movement.” It is a radical group of Sufi believers that promote the Wahhabi version of Islam, imposing a strict version of Sharia law in areas under its control. This includes stoning to death women accused of adultery, amputating the hands of thieves, and beheading Christians and displaying their corpses alongside Bibles. Al Shabaab has its main base in Somalia but has spread its attacks into Kenya and Yemen. In recent years the group has formed links with al-Qaeda and Boko Haram in Nigeria.
Abu Sayyaf; Terrorism In The Philippines
A militant Islamist group known as Abu Sayyaf has been carrying out bombings, kidnappings, assassinations and extortion since its inception in 1991 in what its members claim is a fight for an independent Islamic province in the Philippines. The group, like so many other radical Islamic terrorist organizations springing up in the world, has roots in the Middle East wars. Its founders, brothers Abdurajik Abubakar Janjalani and Khadaffy Janjalani, appear to have been linked to the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), a Muslim rebel group operating in the southern Philippines in the early 1970.
A militant Islamist group known as Abu Sayyaf has been carrying out bombings, kidnappings, assassinations and extortion since its inception in 1991 in what its members claim is a fight for an independent Islamic province in the Philippines. The group, like so many other radical Islamic terrorist organizations springing up in the world, has roots in the Middle East wars. Its founders, brothers Abdurajik Abubakar Janjalani and Khadaffy Janjalani, appear to have been linked to the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), a Muslim rebel group operating in the southern Philippines in the early 1970.
Kashmir Terrorists Jaish-e-Mohammed
The Jaish-e-Mohammed, or JeM, is an Islamist terror group operating in Kashmir. Kashmir is a tiny country separating India from Pakistan, and was once part of India before Pakistan became an independent state. The two countries have been fighting and nearly going to war over possession of Kashmir ever since. Needless to say, the JeM organization was formed for the primary objective of separating Kashmir from India.
The Jaish-e-Mohammed, or JeM, is an Islamist terror group operating in Kashmir. Kashmir is a tiny country separating India from Pakistan, and was once part of India before Pakistan became an independent state. The two countries have been fighting and nearly going to war over possession of Kashmir ever since. Needless to say, the JeM organization was formed for the primary objective of separating Kashmir from India.
The Ansar al-Sharia Movement In Libya
The Ansar al-Sharia militants of Libya were virtually invisible until a few months prior to the September 2012 attack and burning of the U.S. consulate in Benghazi. The group seemed to appear out of nowhere on June 7, 2012, when they drove an estimated 200 pickup trucks mounted with artillery into Benghazi’s Tahrir Square, held a rally in which they demanded the imposition of Sharia law in the government forming after the killing of Muammar Gaddafi.
The Ansar al-Sharia militants of Libya were virtually invisible until a few months prior to the September 2012 attack and burning of the U.S. consulate in Benghazi. The group seemed to appear out of nowhere on June 7, 2012, when they drove an estimated 200 pickup trucks mounted with artillery into Benghazi’s Tahrir Square, held a rally in which they demanded the imposition of Sharia law in the government forming after the killing of Muammar Gaddafi.
The Kurdish PKK Organization
During the Iraq conflict we heard about a third Islamic group known as the Kurds located near the border of Turkey. We didn’t hear a lot about the Kurds other than they seemed to be a somewhat passive people if left alone. When attacked they hit back like a hive of angry hornets. After the U.S. invasion and the capture and killing of Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein, a new Constitution was drafted in Iraq that recognizes an autonomous Kurdistan region run by the Kurdistan Regional Government in the mountains along the northern border with Turkey. The story of how this came about goes back 40 years to the formation of an active terrorist organization known as the Kurdistan Workers Party or PKK (an acronym for Partiya Karkeren Kardistane). The PKK has been waging a furious armed battle for cultural and political rights since it was founded by Kurdish students in 1978.
During the Iraq conflict we heard about a third Islamic group known as the Kurds located near the border of Turkey. We didn’t hear a lot about the Kurds other than they seemed to be a somewhat passive people if left alone. When attacked they hit back like a hive of angry hornets. After the U.S. invasion and the capture and killing of Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein, a new Constitution was drafted in Iraq that recognizes an autonomous Kurdistan region run by the Kurdistan Regional Government in the mountains along the northern border with Turkey. The story of how this came about goes back 40 years to the formation of an active terrorist organization known as the Kurdistan Workers Party or PKK (an acronym for Partiya Karkeren Kardistane). The PKK has been waging a furious armed battle for cultural and political rights since it was founded by Kurdish students in 1978.
The Ansar Dine Terrorists Of Mali
No matter where you go in the world there appears to be terrorist organizations in operation. If there is any common denominator to be found among them it is that the members are battling against either government tyranny or other religious based organizations operating in their country. The Ansar Dine of Mali is such an organization. This group, which raised its militant head from out of the heart of the West African territory in 2012, appears to be a splinter Islamist organization with ties to Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb. It opposes the Sufi Islamic ideology which strangely was the driving force behind an earlier Islamic terrorist movement by the same name that appeared in Southern Mali in the 1980s.
No matter where you go in the world there appears to be terrorist organizations in operation. If there is any common denominator to be found among them it is that the members are battling against either government tyranny or other religious based organizations operating in their country. The Ansar Dine of Mali is such an organization. This group, which raised its militant head from out of the heart of the West African territory in 2012, appears to be a splinter Islamist organization with ties to Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb. It opposes the Sufi Islamic ideology which strangely was the driving force behind an earlier Islamic terrorist movement by the same name that appeared in Southern Mali in the 1980s.
Egypt’s Al-Gama’a Terrorists
In the 1970s another student group emerged in Egypt under the tongue-twisting name al-Gama’a al-Islamiyya, which translates in English to mean “The Islamic Group.” It was a strong left-wing political group, dominated by Marxists, that opposed the Sadat government. The Gama’a was dedicated to the overthrow of the Egyptian government and replacing it with an Islamic state. Instead of making peace with Israel, the organization called for a war of revenge against Israel.
In the 1970s another student group emerged in Egypt under the tongue-twisting name al-Gama’a al-Islamiyya, which translates in English to mean “The Islamic Group.” It was a strong left-wing political group, dominated by Marxists, that opposed the Sadat government. The Gama’a was dedicated to the overthrow of the Egyptian government and replacing it with an Islamic state. Instead of making peace with Israel, the organization called for a war of revenge against Israel.
Columbian FARC & ELN Rebel Forces
The jungles of Columbia, South America, have been housing two major militant groups with pro-Marxist ideology that have been fighting the Colombian and United States governments for at least the past 50 years. Even though they have different ideologies, these groups, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and National Liberation Army (ELN) have joined forces for some of their attacks. They also have engaged in fighting against each other.
The jungles of Columbia, South America, have been housing two major militant groups with pro-Marxist ideology that have been fighting the Colombian and United States governments for at least the past 50 years. Even though they have different ideologies, these groups, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and National Liberation Army (ELN) have joined forces for some of their attacks. They also have engaged in fighting against each other.