The war on terror and its unintended consequences
We cannot claim our war on terror as a success if it breeds new generations of anger, alienation and hatred.
The 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001 have left a lasting impact on the world, altering perceptions of terrorism, security, war, and power. However, a crucial question remains: Did the world truly become safer after 9/11?
For many jihadists, the attacks were seen as a triumph, showcasing the vulnerability of the United States. Al-Qaeda demonstrated that a powerful nation could be targeted within its own borders, fueling a narrative of confrontation between the Muslim world and the West. This narrative, while dangerous, was not without merit. The extremist ideology, combined with perceptions of injustice, humiliation, and grievance, created a potent propaganda machine.
The question then becomes, did the world become safer after these events? Many argue that the answer is no. The attacks did not eradicate terrorism; instead, they created a breeding ground for new generations of anger, alienation, and hatred. The ideology that fueled the attacks continues to thrive, and the perception of injustice persists. Thus, the "war on terror" may have bred more terrorists than it has killed.
Written by urgent.news from The Jakarta Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
