The Daily The Life and Death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi
Oct 29, 2019
Rukmini Callimachi, a renowned terrorism and Islamic State correspondent for The New York Times, delves into the enigmatic life and controversial legacy of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi. The discussion reveals his radicalization journey, from a devout believer to an infamous ISIS leader. She highlights the chilling operations of ISIS and the complex U.S. efforts to eliminate him. Through this lens, they also touch on the importance of independent journalism in shedding light on hidden truths, especially regarding power dynamics and global stability.
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Early Signs of Dogmatism
- Baghdadi's religious devotion was evident in his youth, prioritizing mosque over leisure activities.
- He openly challenged those violating his interpretation of Islamic law, like reprimanding a neighbor for a tattoo.
Soccer and Pamphlets
- Baghdadi, despite being described as shy, coached a soccer team and used it to spread his beliefs.
- After practices, he distributed Wahhabi pamphlets, alarming some parents enough to remove their children from the team.
Camp Bucca Brutality
- In Camp Bucca, Baghdadi incited violence against Shia prisoners, prompting their transfer.
- He then enforced strict religious practices among Sunnis, ordering a smoker's fingers cut off.