Will the Cycle of Wahhabism Remain Unbroken?
By Anahita Hamzei*
The following article is the final part in a three part series: Part 1/3 and Part 2/3.
Continuation…
Politicians, advocates, and masterminds have incorporated all the right elements into Wahhabi statements of belief, using it to brainwash and control the will of numerous individuals around the globe. Regardless of the dangers, USA has offered up, as a sacrifice, many of their own CIA and militant assets working alongside to help train new warriors, wearing the mask of so-called “Islamic Terrorists” – today’s new “boogeyman.”
Wahhabism Today: The Chickens Will Come Home to Roost
Today, Wahhabism spans across the globe, like the spread of an infectious disease it has been penetratingly on the rise. Based on fictitious doctrine, it captivates followers by manipulating the minds of the downtrodden and naïve, taking claim over the human soul; convincing its members, young and old alike, to accept its risky guidelines and extreme doctrines. And it serves almost as the mother of muse for terrorist groups like ISIS that attract new followers each day.
Ultimately, followers uphold such concepts that most lives are of no value–if not tolerant of their own daunting practices and pursuits. This is a core principle of Wahhabi ideals, members are commanded to have little to no regard for anyone—Christian, Atheist, and Muslims, of any age or gender—whose beliefs do not align with their own, and if they do not accept the strict doctrine, as Taymiyyah would request, they are executed. Subsequently, genocide is a common practice of Wahhabi-centered groups like ISIS today. (17) For that reason, it is without a doubt that Wahhabi Cult, is one of the most dangerous and well-organized Cults of our time–with sub-branches extending outward as hate/terrorist groups recognized by the names of Jabhat al-Nusra, FSA, Al Qaeda, Taliban and so on.
ISIS (emerging from leftover Syrian/Libyan/Iraqi “Freedom” fighters) exists as yet another sub-cult of Wahhabism, and they’re all too reminiscent of the Taliban’s brutal past: Like the Taliban, they receive American fighters, trainers, and USA made weapons, even financial and moral support from high paid Hollywood actors and films producers. In fact, USA had numerous ex-military and regular citizens recruited by ISIS and CIA, who fought and died among Wahhabi terrorist groups in Syria.
One American Wahhabi cult member, Eric Harroun, shortly after returning from combat alongside Jabhat al Nursa died in USA, mysteriously. No one will ever know why or what led him to take up arms with a terrorist organization in Syria (other than having obvious signs of brainwashing, possibly by an institution in USA), but something in his sudden death says that is exactly how US government wanted it.” Eric Harroun was arrested after flying into Dulles International Airport in northern Virginia, returning from the Middle East. Authorities said he had previously made “voluntary” statements to FBI agents about his activities fighting with Al Qaeda in Iraq’s Al Nusra Front as part of an “RPG team” in Syria.” (18)
The list of Westerners recruited to fight with terrorist groups is extensive… one will find. ISIS and similar terrorist organizations continue to use the ideals and doctrines of Taymiyyah or Wahhab to recruit passionate mercenaries, or convince ordinary citizens, through their religious beliefs, it is the only way to go—or else get killed, their cycle of recruitment is everywhere and continuous. This was very much how things have played out in Syria over the past several years; disturbingly, incidents involved the recruitment of young boys under 15. A 31-page report by Human Rights Watch titled, ‘Maybe We Live and Maybe We Die: Recruitment and Use of Children by Armed Groups in Syria,’ “documents the experiences of 25 children and former child soldiers in Syria’s armed conflict. Human Rights Watch interviewed children who fought with the Free Syrian Army, the Islamic Front coalition, and the extremist groups ISIS and Jabhat al-Nusra, an Al-Qaeda affiliate, as well as the military and police forces in Kurdish-controlled areas.”(19)
As more journalist in Syria, rebels, adult and child survivors reported on the collaboration of FSA and terrorist groups, it became clear: FSA (backed by USA) was no different than that of ISIS. After the world caught onto the fact that FSA and terrorist groups were practically synonymous in Syria, so USA would not be blamed for their soldiers gone rogue, ISIS suddenly sprout up to cover the tracks of FSA crimes in Syria; by this time, with weapons retrieved, they continued to destabilize and terrorize the whole of the Middle East. (20)
Consequently, who is left to blame in all this? Is it the Muslim child who grew up without a father, because of incoming, non-discriminative bombs initiated under western influence, later sent to a Madrassa for training, which was funded by the Saudi-Western Alliance? Is he the one we should blame, the indoctrinated victim, rather than the global powers at the top of the pyramid scheme and their paid puppets who spread Wahhabism? Or should we blame the infamous fame seekers like FSA/Al Qaeda trainer and US mercenary, Matthew VanDyke? –Van Dyke is also known as the “American Osama bin Landen,” is staunchly supported by the political fat kitten Hillary Clinton, and Hollywood actresses for reaping havoc in the Middle East and promoting the Arab Spring—the kick-start of the bloodiest era for some Asian and African countries today. (21)
Though many factions and individuals are to blame, it is evident that if there was no grimoire of Wahhabism, the culprits might have never gotten so far. Again, terrorist organizations like ISIS were able to manipulate the ideals of Wahhab; thus, in order to strengthen and broaden their might and influence on the battle field in Syria and in Iraq.
ISIS understood that Wahhabism is the perfectly distorted tool of Islam’s enemy, manifested by the powers that be (Saudi Rulers), ripping through the Middle East: dividing, destabilizing, and terrorizing like a tornado; and those involved in this destruction, if not today holding themselves accountable for their own errors, must be held accountable, somehow. Blame must be rested on appropriate instigators. ISIS today remains a treasured faction in handler states that claim to be “fighting against terrorism.”
Public opinion of ISIS in Saudi Arabia certainly remains favorable. “In June 2014, a poll taken in Saudi Arabia showed that 92% believed, “ISIS conforms to the values of their vision of ‘Islam and Islamic Law,’’ Saudi intelligence has taken notice of this level of public sympathy (due in part to pressure from the U.S.) especially of the blatant Twitter campaigns showing support for the Islamic State and pledging allegiance to Al-Baghdadi. However, as the House of Saud wages its condemnation against ISIS, it is clear that the Wahhabi ideology is firmly cemented in the religious culture of Saudi Arabia casting significant doubt on a change in public opinion.” (22) Despite their damage, ISIS–smothered in Wahhabi dogma–remains the cherished centerpiece on a roundtable encircled by cunning networks.
At the moment, many statesmen and politicians have not learned their lesson–or they choose to remain in a state of stupor; enchanted by a disease of the heart most commonly known as Greed. Leaders from the Western world are ever more committed towards their Wahhabi creations and comrades. They depend on them (Wahhabi indoctrinated rulers and fighters) and will back them, if they keep playing by their rules: A good example would be that of Donald Trumps’ relation with Saudi Monarchy, whom he prances around with, sword in hand, oozing over a magical orb with. It is no wonder Iran, one of the few countries earnestly fighting against the Wahhabi indoctrinated groups, has singled out USA and Saudi Arabia for a recent attack on their soil claimed by ISIS. (23) Nonetheless, as this strong support for Wahhabism remains, things are–most certainly–not hopeless. If those involved in such chaos will not take responsibility, there is hope that the people will wake up and take charge; breaking apart the vicious cycle of fear and hate that Wahhabism has instilled, and bringing about some positive change.
Preventing Wahhabism: Will the Vicious Circle of Wahhabism Ever Come Undone?
“If we try to resolve terrorism with military might and nothing else, then we will be no safer than we were before 9/11. If we truly want a legacy of peace for our children, we need to understand that this is a war that will ultimately be won with books, not with bombs.” Greg Mortenson (24)
One hang up that must be challenged is this almost universal ignorance or unawareness of Wahhabism. Ignorance is an issue on both sides of the pendulum: Both sides of the pendulum, including the individuals who become spellbound by obscurity and those spellbound by Wahhabism. In the Western hemisphere, a majority of people are completely ill-informed when it comes to separating Islam from Wahhabism. There is an unawareness of Wahhabism’s very existence: For instance, unlike the attention that other followers of extreme ideologies, and dangerous cults have received in the West, Wahhabism has received the ‘Royal Western Flush’ or media black-out.
Take note: Wahhabism is there. It is empirical. It takes hold of those we love–with little warning or recognition. And it has stood protected, loyally supported by millions of people and billions of dollars. It lingers on to claim hundreds of thousands of lives–innocent, not so innocent. (25, 26) As previously discussed, ideologies that spread and gave rise to this cult can be found in books: or on the tongues of peers and scholars; they are in some schools; and possibly implanted in the minds of those we love and trust. It is with certainty that solutions initiated by the West have been ineffective towards containing the issue; addressing the problems arising from terrorism or Wahhabism will never be resolved with bombs and violence. So just how do we resolve things?
Preventing or curbing the spread of Wahhabism will be no easy feat; however, many people have tried to combat this concern peacefully and managed by simply educating others. Education is key. Education is a simple, fruitful, and peaceful solution that can prevent the spread of extremist ideology like Wahhabi doctrine, it can bring to light all the warning signs of corrupted sources–which humanity must collectively reject and peacefully decline. Yes, educating and writing about Wahhabism entails so much skill and dedication. At times it can be like walking on eggshells; educators, advocates, and writers must not make the same mistakes as Taymiyyeh or Wahhab: Many individuals have become overwhelmed with bitterness, anger, and hatred over the devastating results spread by Wahhabism, in turn, they react just as harshly as the oppressors. Everyone, in the fight against extremism, must keep in mind that people indoctrinated by Wahhabi ideologies are not sub-human, they are human; but, they have taken a path wide off the mark, and they must be awakened from their trancelike state. Those who’ve walked into the web of Wahhabism are not incorrigible. The majority of Wahhabi cult members, do not even realize who they are, and have not committed actual crimes themselves–unless taking up arms to fight and terrorize with ISIS—then yes, it is another story. For many, however, like young children and women trained to fight or deceived by male partners, their only mistake is being misled and brought into a cult as vulnerable, sought out victims. (19)
Healing and changing the mindset of hundreds of thousands, possibly millions, indoctrinated by Wahhabi ideology will take a considerable amount of undoing and awareness; just as it was once done, and in some cases continues for children growing up in racist institutions, or for those raised in homes disconcerted by Zionism and Nazism. If we recognize Wahhabism for what it is–an extremely large cult-like organization permeating literature and educational systems around the world—the human community may be able to act better and faster on awareness and education. While educating and learning about the subject, people must also be aware of what Wahhabism is not, and refrain from categorizing people most likely to become followers of Wahhab, like the singling out of Sunni Muslims. There is much distortion and uneducated guesses concerning the ideology, which only creates more friction among Sunni and Shi’a (some only wish to embolden the rift): choose words and collect data wisely. Furthermore, conquering the misconceptions that all Muslims support terrorism must be put to rest: This is sheer ignorance, which in due course escalates hatred; ultimately, leading to fear and often irrationality. Many Muslim communities, Sunni and Shi’a are working hard to undo the effects of extremism more than any other groups these days. (27)
A final point to be taken seriously is, as Ayatollah Khamenei’s website ambassadors recently tweeted, “Terrorism in the Middle East has American roots”: Western meddling in Middle Eastern affairs, without a doubt, needs to come to an end. Weapons deals, crash training courses, and all funding for ISIS sponsors, like Saudi Arabia, must cease to exist. Most political figures in US, of course, have no intention of putting an end to what they have started; henceforth, these endeavors must be accomplished by the people. The people can manage to educate themselves and can educate others. They can also set aside their fears by becoming more involved. Americans, specifically, must stop pushing away Muslims with arrogance and ignorance, and invite them into their lives. Muslims cannot get too cozy either, they have a responsibility to stand strong against those spreading hateful rhetoric wherever that may be. Be aware of those who distort Islam, try to help them cope and understand where the danger lies; it is one of the most human things a person can do to help save another: Involve yourself. Largely, Wahhabism ends where it began, with education and knowledge.
Conclusion:
To close, terrorism is nothing new, humanity has had their share with it, time and time again. They manage with what they know of it–in their familiar zones– often without thinking or realizing what they’ve endured is terrorism or extremism. The problem lies, therein, when it is a type of extremism that many are oblivious to. The wave of Wahhabi extremism comes with many unfamiliar elements, and instead of learning about it, for many, it’s easier to be lazy and rest blame all Muslims rather than get to the heart of it. This collective misconduct only stirs up greater calamities, as it has done in Western countries with the rise of Islamophobia–in such a noxious environment the hate filled circle of extremism shall never be unbroken. This analytical, and hopefully informative, series was intended for that reason: A guide to awaken and enlighten, to inject hope where it is lacking; thus, the acrimonious circle of Wahhabism may someday be broken. And, since humankind has dealt with extremism before and conquered it too, Wahhabism is hardly different from other forms of extremism; therefore, it’s important to keep in mind: Wahhabism is not going to end our world. We are going to end Wahhabism, Insha’Allah.
Works cited:
17. Why Don’t We Hear About the Persecuted Christians? Moore, Natasha. Ney York, NY : ABC.net , 2014.
18. Ex-U.S. soldier accused of joining Al Qaeda-linked group in Syria. Serrano, Richard A. Los Angeles : Los Angeles Times , 2013.
19. Syria: Armed Groups Send Children into Battle. Staff. New York : Human Rights Watch, 2014. 978-1-62313-1425.
20. FSA brigade ‘joins al-Qaeda group’ in Syria. Staff. Doha : Al Jazeera Media Network, 2013.
21. Iran blames US for creating ISIS amid worsening Middle East tensions. Griffiths, James and Alkhshali, Hamdi. Atlanta : Cable News Network, 2017.
22. Wahhabism, ISIS, and the Saudi Connection. Clapper, Lincoln. Toronto : Geopoliticalmonitor Intelligence Corp, 2016. ISSN 1927-3045 .
23. VanDyke, Matthew. MatthewVandyke.com Events. Matthewvandyke.com. [Online] 2013. http://www.matthewvandyke.com/events/.
24. Mortenson, Greg and Relin, D. Oliver. Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace – One School at a Time. s.l. : Penguin Group, 2007. 978-0-14-303825-2.
25. Dozens of Iraqis killed as Isis targets Baghdad during Ramadan . Chulov, Martin. Baghdad : The Guardian, 2017.
26. Storyline: Isis Claims Kabul Hospital Attack, Taliban Remains Main Threat. F. Bruton, Brinley and Mengli, Ahmed. New York : NBCnews.com , 2017.
27. How to Stop Extremism before it Stops. Stephan, Maria J. and Beyerle, Shaazka. s.l. : Foreign Policy , 2015.
Other sites where this article has been published:
http://ijtihadnet.com/will-cycle-wahhabism-remain-unbroken/#comment-2257
http://english.khamenei.ir/news/4920/Will-the-Cycle-of-Wahhabism-Remain-Unbroken
http://aassak13.ir/post/Will-the-Cycle-of-Wahhabism-Remain-Unbroken
Works by Anahita Hamzei 