NCJ Number
123234
Journal
Terrorism Volume: 11 Issue: 5 Dated: (1988) Pages: 371-374
Date Published
1988
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Moslem extremists in both the Shi'i and Sunni branches pose a threat to security interests in those countries where Moslem extremists, particularly Shi'i, compose a significant percentage of the population.
Abstract
These countries include Iran, Iraq, Bahrain, North Yemen, Lebanon, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. Many of these countries are sources of Middle Eastern oil and influence the price of oil throughout the world. Moslem extremists have targeted the United States as the "Great Satan," whose evil deeds must be avenged and influence undermined. Terrorism and violence are primary means of achieving Moslem extremist goals. The United States must obtain intelligence information on the plans, capabilities, and intentions of these extremist elements. Information on the Moslem extremists must also encompass the dynamics of the various religious communities, what makes their leaders tick, the formal and informal power, and the clan structure. Information is needed on how decisions are made, leaders and issues chosen, and options selected.