Publication at Faculty of Social Sciences |
2015
Abstract
Jihadist groups often select for attack targets such as brothels and casinos, which Salafi ideology considers places of sin. However, they adjust to the expectations of the local population.
In doing so, they seek to boost their standing and secure the solidarity of other Salafists. Wherever they cannot assume that fatal attacks on "sinful" (haram) targets will meet with acceptance, they put greater emphasis on "re-education" than retribution.
Weaker terrorist cells in particular avoid attacks where a massive response from security forces can be expected. Therefore, at their core, jihadist groups behave rationally, as the example of Dagestan shows.