Islamic Jihad
Etymology
The term Jihad (جهاد) in Arabic signifies “striving” or “struggle,” often construed in a broader religious and moral context. However, it has also been associated with violent struggle. Islamic Jihad (جهاد إسلامي) here specifically references a militant organization.
Arabic: جهاد إسلامي
Turkish: İslami Cihad
Historical Background
Islamic Jihad, also known as Jihad al-Islami, was founded in Lebanon in 1982 by members of Hizb Allah (Hezbollah). It was principally conceived as a vehicle for clandestine activities and high-risk operations that aimed to challenge Western presence and influence, particularly that of the United States, in Lebanon.
Goals and Objectives
The primary goal of Islamic Jihad has been the establishment of an Islamic state in Lebanon. Ideologically influenced by Shiite political thought and closely aligned with Hizb Allah, the group gained notoriety for its violent methods, including bombings and hostage-taking.
Notable Activities
Islamic Jihad claimed responsibility for several high-profile attacks:
- The U.S. Embassy Bombing (April 18, 1983)
- The Bombing of the U.S. Marine Headquarters of Multinational Forces (MNF) (October 23, 1983), which also affected the French contingent.
- Kidnappings: These began with the abduction of the acting president of the American University of Beirut in 1982. Hostage-taking continued until 1988, with the last American hostage released in 1991.
Support and Sponsorship
Islamic Jihad has received significant support from Syria and Iran. Syria has utilized the group to undermine Western influence and to secure its political and military domination in Lebanon. On the other hand, Iran has exploited Islamic Jihad’s activities to gain an influence among Shiite communities in the region. Notably, Iran’s support was integral to the arms-for-hostages deal central to the Iran-Contra affair.
Organizational Links
Although Islamic Jihad shares certain organizational ties with Palestinian Islamic Jihad, they remain distinct entities. Coordination between the two does occur but is not consistent enough to categorize them as a single group.
Further Reading and Studies
- Kramer, Martin. Hezbollah: The Story of the Party of God.
- Norton, Augustus Richard. Hezbollah: A Short History.
- Azani, Eitan. Hezbollah: The Story of the Party of God: From Revolution to Institutionalization.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Islamic Jihad holds a notorious reputation for its violent methodologies and explicit aims of restructuring Lebanon into an Islamic state. Supported inconsistently yet effectively by regional powers like Syria and Iran, it has left an indelible impact on Lebanon’s political landscape and the broader geopolitics of the Middle East.
Understanding Islamic Jihad’s activities and affiliations is crucial for comprehending the complex dynamics between terror organizations and state actors in the region.
By broadening the scope of this entry and detailing historical activities, support dynamics, and affiliations, the intricacies and implications of Islamic Jihad’s existence become clearer, presenting a more comprehensive view for readers.
