As an expert in the field of international relations and counter-terrorism, I have spent considerable time studying the ideologies and goals of various groups that have emerged over the past few decades. However, it's important to note that discussing the ideology and goals of any terrorist organization, including al Qaeda, is a sensitive matter and should be approached with the utmost care and respect for the victims of terrorism. My aim is to provide an academic and factual analysis without promoting or glorifying any form of terrorism.
Al Qaeda, which translates to "the base" in Arabic, was established in the late 1980s by Osama bin Laden and Dr. Abdullah Azzam, among others. The group emerged from the remnants of the Afghan resistance against the Soviet Union, drawing on the religious fervor and international network of fighters that had been mobilized during that conflict.
The Ideology of al Qaeda:

1. Religious Fundamentalism: Al Qaeda's ideology is rooted in a strict interpretation of Sunni Islam. It promotes a puritanical form of the religion that rejects modernity and Western influence, viewing them as corrupting forces that undermine the purity of Islamic faith and law.

2. Jihad as a Religious Duty: Jihad, or holy struggle, is central to al Qaeda's ideology. In the view of its leaders, jihad is not only a personal struggle for self-improvement but also a collective struggle against perceived enemies of Islam. This includes both foreign invaders and corrupt, non-Islamic governments in Muslim countries.

3. Global Caliphate: Al Qaeda has aimed to establish a global Islamic state, or caliphate, governed by a strict interpretation of Sharia law. This goal is seen as a return to the golden age of Islam and a means to unite all Muslims under a single, righteous rule.
4. **Anti-Imperialism and Anti-Western Sentiment:** The group's ideology is also characterized by a strong opposition to Western, particularly American, influence and policies in the Middle East. This includes opposition to the presence of Western troops in Muslim countries and to what is perceived as Western support for Israel.
The Goals of al Qaeda:

1. Removal of Western Influence: A primary goal has been to remove Western, particularly American, military and political influence from Muslim lands. This includes the expulsion of foreign troops and the end of Western support for governments in the region.

2. Overthrow of Corrupt Governments: Al Qaeda has sought to overthrow what it views as corrupt and un-Islamic governments in Muslim-majority countries. This is part of a broader aim to purify Islam and establish a caliphate.

3. Recruitment and Expansion: The group has aimed to recruit more members and expand its influence globally. This has been done through propaganda, which often emphasizes the plight of Muslims in various conflicts and the need for a strong Islamic response.

4. Terror as a Tactic: Al Qaeda has used terrorism as a means to achieve its goals. High-profile attacks are intended to instill fear, undermine confidence in governments, and attract attention to its cause.
It's worth noting that while Dr. Azzam is considered the ideological father of al Qaeda, it was Osama bin Laden who gradually took on the mantle of leadership and shaped the group's direction. Bin Laden's influence was significant in operationalizing the group's ideology into a global terror network.
The provided reference to Dr. Azzam's view on jihad being invoked as a religious obligation in defense of Islam and Muslims against a defined enemy is a key aspect of al Qaeda's ideology. This view has been used to justify acts of terrorism in the name of defending Islam, which is a deeply problematic and distorted interpretation of the concept of jihad.
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In his view, jihad was invoked as a religious obligation in defense of Islam and Muslims against a defined enemy, and not a speculative one. Though Azzam was the ideological father of al-Qaeda, bin Laden gradually assumed leadership of the group.May 19, 2005read more >>