Reasons for Terrorism in the Middle East

Abstract

The Middle East and terrorism are often used together in terrorism literature and have become synonymous with each other. Muslims worldwide confront multidimensional crises including economic, political, educational, cultural, and social problems. Experts are right to claim that most of the radical terrorist groups stem from this region and terrorism is not the only consequence of these factors. Therefore, in this study, we will approach the root causes of terrorism with a historic example of the first terrorist movement in this region, Kharijites, because it is necessary to understand the religious and ideological factors of radical groups who have misinterpreted the religion and spread this twisted ideology. History is being repeated by Neo Kharijism in the 21st century, represented by ISIS, originating with the Kharijites in the seventh century. The chronic problems of this region such as authoritarian regimes, education, unemployment and poverty are easily manipulated by such radical terrorist organizations. To end radical influence on youth, we recommend that a real approach of religion towards violence and radicalization should be promoted by mainstream Muslims and human rights and democratic values should be nurtured in educational curricula.