Discuss why Martin Hart argues that al Qaeda has lost its appeal in the Muslim world

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

• Hart argues that al Qaeda has lost its appeal in the Muslim world because of its basic mission.
• Far from being a religious movement, it pictures itself as the vanguard of a popular uprising that will destroy Western influence and reestablish the caliphate.
• Many Muslims viewed al Qaeda's early attacks as the heroic resistance to unjust colonialism, but al Qaeda's central message failed to invoke a resurgence of religion.
• This is primarily due to its emphasis on violence over the message of Islam.
• Hart believes the overreliance on violence ultimately isolates al Qaeda from Islam.
• Their weakness is exacerbated because they have no organizational structure.
• Their most effective tactic is inspiration, and this does not move them beyond their small cell structures.
• Al Qaeda cannot expand, and it has weak support from any potential sponsor as well as insufficient areas to regroup in safe havens.
• There is no practical strategy and no solid theological foundation.
• Aside from its emphasis on violence, it cannot generate grassroots appeal.
• Its focus is on an idealized golden age that neither recognizes nor accepts local needs.
• The internet and al Qaeda-controlled media glorify religion, but this does not build local organizations.