Suicide Bombers - Some Were Merely Children
Abstract
The recent introduction of suicide bombers into the American military's battle space is not new, remember the Japanese Kamikazes during World War II? These modern day bombers, however, have been operating primarily in the confines of the Israeli-Palestinian land until recently. In the year 2004, families in the Gaza Strip became highly alarmed when children as young as 11 were identified as potential bombers. These youngsters' elation and willingness to die perplexed many. The use of children, actually, is not new. Some African nations typically use child soldiers to fight their wars, Liberia is an example. This most brutal violence delivered with the elements of surprise, lethality, precision, and deception is created by mostly young adults of Arab descent. There is no notable feature; they are hard to detect, thereby, making everyone a potential target. This low cost, disposable human weapon, by far, is the most effective weapon against the technologically advanced militaries. There has been no method of deterrence identified to date. This paper will attempt to explore the root reason(s) of this barbaric weaponry. The root cause must be understood to begin working towards permanent eradication of suicide bombers. How are potential bombers targeted for recruitment? Do they really want to die? Are recruits merely vulnerable young people or are they coerced? Or are they driven by religious beliefs? Why are they considered martyrs? This project will examine these questions, attempt to establish a profile, and identify factors that motivate individuals to volunteer for suicide missions. The goal of this project is to propose possible solutions, if any, in deterring suicide bombers in the future.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 18, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA432497
Entities
People
- Lillian A. James-o'neal
Organizations
- United States Army War College