Posted by
Mark McConnell on Wednesday, September 27, 2006 4:21:37 PM
"Greater pluralism and more responsive political systems in Muslim majority
nations would alleviate some of the grievances jihadists exploit. Over time, such
progress, together with sustained, multifaceted programs targeting the
vulnerabilities of the jihadist movement and continued pressure on al-Qa’ida,
could erode support for the jihadists."
NIE Key JudgmentsJihadists see Iraq as the front line of their cause, because of what they envision would result from their defeat in Iraq. The jihadist pull derives from their allegation that should we win, Iraq would be better for the United States but worse for Iraq, and especially for Muslims in Iraq.
Killing more jihadists does not neutralize their attractiveness to their supporters. Their attraction lies in their credibility as freedom fighters. The key to defeating them is in establishing freedom, and doing so despite great cost to ourselves.