It is an unfortunate truth that throughout the history of mankind, conspiracy theorists have evoked more misunderstanding and mistrust than any other group of people. It is interesting to consider why people are prone to believing in far-fetched, out-of-the-ordinary theories based on mere speculation rather than facts. It is in the nature of some to reject the obvious and look for more attractive and theatrical explanation for events that happen in our lives. As simple as it seems, for some people facts, reality and the truth are dull and boring, so they try to create a grand scheme system in which they are a pawn controlled by a powerful evil system. It is a script only fit for movies, and far from reality. However, it is a satisfying thought to know that these conspiracy theorists, though very vocal, are very small in number.
What these conspiracy theorists do not realize is that they often contradict themselves by promoting conflicting theories. One minute the Taliban are Mujahids fighting for their freedom from invaders, while the next minute they are American agents trying to destabilize a region. Now when they have realized that these two theories conflict, they have invented the “Good Taliban,” “Bad Taliban” division. Because the Afghan Taliban launch attacks in Afghanistan, they are the “good Taliban.” If the TTP launches attacks on Pakistani soil, they are the “Bad Taliban.” Characterizing them as good or bad depending on where they commit attacks does not work, since they even attack across the rugged border of Afghanistan and Pakistan.
The fact of the matter is that there is no meaningful distinction between a good and a bad terrorist. A terrorist does not have the conscience to distinguish between fighting soldiers on a battlefield, and killing, kidnapping children, deceiving children, using them as a weapon, attacking hospitals, markets etc. They are cowards, not Mujahids. If their cause was real or based on the guidance of Allah and Islam, then they would fight on the battlefield, not hide behind burqas and target the innocent. In the Battle of Badr, Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) was outnumbered three times over, 313 to over a 1000, but he and his followers fought face to face in the name of Allah to protect their people. He did not stab his enemies from behind and attack innocent people. Why? Because even in Jihad, the means to the end matter. If these terrorists were God fearing, they would not use the cowardly tactic of luring misinformed youth to commit a sin such as suicide. By engaging in these actions, have they not polluted the concept of Jihad?
How long must we endure and indulge conspiracy theories? The days of imperialism and colonialism are history. Every nation is striving to deal with its number one responsibility, which is the security of its people and interests. In the War on Terror, we share a common goal with all countries around the world who are suffering from the plaque of terrorism. We have to fight together to bring an end to this catastrophic ideology and stop playing the blame game.
MAJ T.G. Taylor,
DET – U.S Central Command
(http://www.centcom.mil/ur)