Terrorism by Non-State Actors

Topic: An assessment of the factors that is conducive to the formation and

continued operation of a major terrorist group: Al-Qaeda

Jerry Wilson

Terrorism by Non-State Actors

18 February 2014

Introduction

Since the terror attack on September 11, 2001, the U.S. and its closest allies have been faced with the reality of engaging and eliminating international terrorism as the new era of warfare has surfaced which completely blurs the thin line between modern war and desired peace. Following the outcome of the over 30 years of war the historical Westphalian system entrenched a international system forming a platform for civilized nations to establish an official forum in duties and rights of states through negotiation[1]. The development of various international treaties, laws, organizations, and diplomatic missions has emerged from these doctrines of this Westphalian system. Nonetheless, the September 11/01 Al-Qaeda as an international terrorists group or organizational, abruptly burst into the global spotlight, and fundamentally challenging the doctrines cultivated by this system since the late 1600’s[2]. Al-Qaeda was born in the 12th century, but surprisingly became popular in the 21st century. Following the attack on the U.S., a new age of warfare against terror emerged, with the U.S. and the U.K leading the pack to fight Al-Qaeda, and related terrorist groups of international reach. The factors addressed here are conducive to the formation and continued operation of a major terrorist group like Al-Qaeda as they operate outside the conventional attributes of the global community, forcing the U.S., as well as the international community to utilize numerous strategies in isolating, eradicating and containing the global threat posed by this terror group.

Rise of Al-Qaeda’s Organization

The fight against terror gained pace in early 1968. Astoundingly, prior to September11/01 on New York, World Trade Center, and the District...