What is Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya, and what was its primary objective?

Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya, meaning "Islamic Group" in Arabic, is an Egyptian Sunni Islamist movement. Its primary objective was to overthrow the Egyptian government and establish an Islamic state in its place. This goal drove much of its historical actions and conflicts.

What is the international designation of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya by the United Kingdom and the European Union?

The United Kingdom and the European Union officially designate Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya as a terrorist organization. This designation reflects the group's past activities and the international community's stance on groups engaging in terrorism.

When was Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya removed from the United States list of Foreign Terrorist Organizations?

Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya was removed from the United States list of Foreign Terrorist Organizations in May 2022. This change in designation indicates a shift in the US government's assessment of the group's current threat level or activities.

How did the group's activities change following the 2013 Egyptian coup d'état?

Following the coup that ousted Mohamed Morsi in 2013, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya committed to engaging in peaceful activities. This marked a significant shift from its previous militant stance, indicating an adaptation to the changing political landscape in Egypt.

What was the duration and impact of the insurgency waged by Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya against the Egyptian government?

From 1992 to 1998, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya waged an insurgency against the Egyptian government. This period resulted in the deaths of at least 796 Egyptian police and soldiers, numerous fighters from the group, and civilians, including dozens of tourists. The conflict had a profound and destabilizing effect on Egypt.

Which countries provided support to Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya during its insurgency, and which country supported the Egyptian government?

During its insurgency from 1992 to 1998, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya received support from the governments of Iran and Sudan. Concurrently, the United States provided support to the Egyptian government in its efforts to combat the insurgency.

How has Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya been described in terms of its organizational strength within Egypt?

One scholar described the groups associated with Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya as constituting "the Islamist movement's only genuine mass organizations" in Egypt. This suggests a significant level of popular mobilization and organizational capacity within the country at certain points in its history.

What is the general consensus regarding Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya's involvement in the 1981 assassination of Anwar Sadat?

While the assassination of President Anwar Sadat in 1981 is generally attributed to another Islamist group, Egyptian Islamic Jihad, some sources suggest that Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya was responsible for or at least connected to the assassination. This highlights potential overlaps or collaborations between different militant factions.

What significant change occurred within the imprisoned leadership of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya in 2003?

In 2003, the imprisoned leadership of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya renounced bloodshed. This led to the release of some high-ranking members and allowed the group to resume semi-legal peaceful activities, marking a turning point in its operational strategy.

Who was Omar Abdel-Rahman, and what was his connection to Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya?

Omar Abdel-Rahman was a cleric who served as the spiritual leader of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya. He was a significant figure whose guidance influenced the group's ideology and actions, and the group actively campaigned for his release until his death in 2017.

What political party did Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya form after the 2011 Egyptian Revolution, and what was its electoral success?

Following the 2011 Revolution, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya established a political party named the Building and Development Party. This party achieved electoral success by winning 13 seats in the 2011-2012 elections for the lower house of the Egyptian Parliament.

When did Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya begin, and what was its initial organizational structure?

Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya began as an umbrella organization for Egyptian militant student groups. It formed after the Muslim Brotherhood renounced violence in the 1970s, initially focusing its activities on university campuses.

What was the political climate on Egyptian university campuses in the early days of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya?

In its early days, the Egyptian student movement was largely dominated by leftist factions, including Nasserists and Marxists. These groups were critical of the Sadat government's policies, particularly its approach to rebuilding the military and its peace initiatives with Israel.

How did Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya gain influence on university campuses starting in 1973?

The group gained influence through discrete, tactical collaboration with the Sadat government, which sought a counterweight to its leftist opponents. This strategic alliance allowed the group to grow its presence and appeal on campuses.

What were some of the specific demands made by Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya on university campuses?

On university campuses, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya campaigned for policies such as the mandatory wearing of Islamic dress, the veiling of women, and the segregation of classes by gender. These demands reflected a push towards implementing their interpretation of Islamic principles in educational settings.

By what year had Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya become a dominant force in the Egyptian student movement?

By March 1976, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya had become a dominant force within the Egyptian student movement. By 1977, they had gained complete control of the universities, leading to the marginalization of leftist organizations.

How did the group's stance on the Egyptian government and the Camp David Accords evolve?

Initially favored by the government, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya later became a vocal opponent of Anwar Sadat's administration, passionately denouncing the Camp David Accords with Israel as a "shameful peace." This opposition marked a significant shift in their relationship with the state.

What actions did the Egyptian government take in 1979 and the early 1980s to counter the growing Islamist influence in universities?

In 1979, President Sadat attempted to curb the influence of Islamist groups by enacting a law that transferred student union authority to professors and administrators. Despite these measures, Islamists continued to gain influence in university faculties throughout the 1980s.

What social changes did Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya enforce in universities where they gained control?

In universities where they held influence, such as Assiut University, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya supported demands to end mixed-sex classes and reduce female enrollment. They also enforced bans on activities like films, concerts, and dances, using intimidation tactics to ensure compliance.

Where did Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya members recruit followers after establishing influence on campuses?

After gaining influence on university campuses, the groups associated with Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya expanded their recruitment efforts to poor neighborhoods in cities, rural areas, and even among inmates in Egyptian jails.

What sectarian conflict in April 1981 involved Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya and Coptic Egyptians?

In April 1981, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya became involved in a conflict near Minya, Egypt, which began as a dispute between Coptic and Muslim Egyptians. The group opposed the perceived 'arrogance' of Christians and their status as dhimmis, distributing leaflets accusing the governor of arming Christians and the Sadat administration of following US orders.

What sectarian violence occurred in Cairo in June 1981, and what was the group's alleged role?

In June 1981, a violent sectarian clash between Muslims and Copts took place in the al-Zawaiyya Al Hamra district of Cairo, resulting in 17 deaths, numerous injuries, and significant property damage. Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya was accused of participating in this incident.

What action did the Egyptian state take against Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya in September 1981?

In September 1981, shortly before the assassination of President Sadat, the Egyptian state dissolved Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya, destroyed its infrastructure, and arrested its leaders. The group had never been legally registered, making this dissolution a state-driven crackdown.

What coalition was formed in 1980 involving Egyptian Islamic Jihad and Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya?

In 1980, Egyptian Islamic Jihad, led by Muhammad abd-al-Salam Faraj, formed a coalition with Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya, led by Karam Zuhdi. Both groups agreed to follow the guidance of Sheikh Omar Abdel-Rahman, ultimately leading to their involvement in Sadat's assassination.

What was the immediate aftermath of President Anwar Sadat's assassination in 1981 concerning the group's members?

Two days after President Sadat's assassination, members of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya in Asyut launched an uprising, which was quickly suppressed by authorities. Following the assassination, Karam Zuhdi, a leader of the group, reportedly expressed regret for his collaboration with Egyptian Islamic Jihad.

What role did Omar Abdel-Rahman play in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing conspiracy and subsequent plots?

Sheikh Omar Abdel-Rahman, the spiritual leader of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya, was accused of participating in the conspiracy behind the 1993 World Trade Center bombings. He was later convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment for espousing a plot to bomb New York City landmarks, including the United Nations and FBI offices.

How did Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya evolve organizationally by the late 1980s?

By the late 1980s, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya transformed from an amorphous collection of local mosque-based groups into a more organized entity. It adopted an official logo featuring a sword, an open Quran, and a rising sun, with a Qur'anic verse as its motto.

What was the official motto of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya, and what does it signify?

The official motto of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya was the Qur'anic verse: "Fight them on until there is no more Tumult, and there prevail justice and faith in Allah; but if they cease, Let there be no hostility except to those who practise oppression." This verse reflects their justification for engaging in conflict.

What was the nature and impact of the terrorism campaign waged by Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya in the 1990s?

In the 1990s, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya conducted an extensive campaign of violence, including assassinations of intellectuals and targeting of tourists. This campaign severely damaged Egypt's tourism industry, a major economic sector, while also negatively impacting the livelihoods of the people the group claimed to represent.

Who were some of the prominent victims of the 1992-1997 terrorism campaign by Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya?

The victims of the 1992-1997 campaign included high-profile figures such as the head of the counter-terrorism agency, Major General Raouf Khayrat, and the speaker of parliament, Rifaat al-Mahgoub. Additionally, dozens of European tourists and Egyptian bystanders, along with over 100 Egyptian police officers, were killed.

What event in June 1995 involved Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya and Egyptian Islamic Jihad?

In June 1995, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya collaborated with Egyptian Islamic Jihad to stage a planned attempt on the life of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The attempt failed, and Mubarak retaliated with a severe crackdown on the group's members.

What was the 'Nonviolence Initiative' brokered in July 1997?

The 'Nonviolence Initiative' was a deal brokered by lawyer Montassir al-Zayyat between Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya and the Egyptian government. Under this agreement, the movement formally renounced violence, leading to the release of thousands of members in subsequent years.

How did the 'Nonviolence Initiative' divide Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya?

The Nonviolence Initiative created a significant division within Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya. Members within Egypt largely supported the initiative, while those in exile, notably Ayman Zawahiri, vehemently opposed it, viewing it as a "surrender."

Describe the Luxor massacre of November 1997.

On November 17, 1997, members of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya attacked tourists at the Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor, Egypt. Dressed as police officers, they killed 58 foreign tourists and four Egyptians using machine guns and knives. This brutal attack killed a total of 71 people and severely damaged Egypt's tourism industry.

What was the reaction of Egyptians and the group's supporters to the Luxor massacre?

The Luxor massacre generated widespread revulsion among Egyptians and led to a rejection of jihadi terrorism. Supporters of the attack quickly distanced themselves, with some denying Islamist involvement or blaming external actors like Israelis, while leaders like Omar Abdel-Rahman and Ayman Zawahiri offered conflicting explanations.

When did Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya officially renounce bloodshed, and what was the consequence?

Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya officially renounced bloodshed in 2003. As a result, Egypt freed over 1,000 members in September 2003, citing the group's stated commitment to rejecting violence. This marked a significant step towards de-radicalization for many members.

What impact did the harsh government repression and the unpopularity of tourist attacks have on the group?

The combination of harsh government repression and the public's strong disapproval of attacks on foreign tourists significantly reduced the group's profile. However, the movement continued to retain popular support among Egyptian Islamists who opposed the secular nature of Egyptian society and its peace treaty with Israel.

What was the stated reason for Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya's support for legislation after the 2011 Revolution?

After the 2011 Revolution, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya, through its political party, stated that any legislation drafted in Egypt must adhere to the Sharia of God. They believed that the suffering endured during previous years was due to the neglect of religion and the empowerment of those who did not fear God.

What did Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya's political party state regarding the rights of followers of other religions?

The Building and Development Party, formed by Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya, stated that Islam could accommodate everyone and respected the freedom of followers of other religions to consult their own religious laws in private matters. This indicated a degree of tolerance towards religious minorities within their political platform.

Who was appointed governor of Luxor in June 2013, and why did he resign?

In June 2013, Adel el-Khayat, a member of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya, was appointed governor of Luxor. He resigned within a week due to public unrest stemming from the group's involvement in the 1997 Luxor massacre.

Which radical Islamist theorist's work heavily influenced Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya's ideology?

The group frequently referenced and quoted from the works of the radical Islamist theorist Sayyid Qutb, particularly his manifesto *Ma'alim fi al-Tariq* (Milestones). Qutb's ideas on liberation from corrupt thought and the divine right to legislate were central to their ideology.

According to the group's writings, what was the perceived cause of Egypt's socioeconomic problems?

Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya attributed Egypt's socioeconomic problems not to factors like overpopulation or high defense spending, but to the populace's spiritual failings, such as laxity, secularism, and corruption. They proposed a return to the perceived simplicity and self-reliance of earlier Muslim life as the solution.

When did Ayman al-Zawahiri announce an alliance between a faction of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya and Al-Qaeda?

Ayman al-Zawahiri, the deputy leader of Al-Qaeda, announced an alliance with a faction of Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya on August 5, 2006, via an internet video. The stated goal was to unite capabilities against a perceived 'crusader campaign' against Islam.

Was the alliance announced by Ayman al-Zawahiri universally accepted within Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya?

No, the alliance was not universally accepted. While one leader confirmed the move, other members denied joining forces with Al-Qaeda, and some stated that such decisions represented only personal views, not the consensus of the entire group.

Which countries have officially designated Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya as a terrorist organization?

Several countries and organizations have officially designated Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya as a terrorist organization. These include the United Kingdom (since March 29, 2001), Canada (since July 23, 2002), Israel (since 2003), and Russia (since 2006).

What is the significance of the image depicting 'Members of al-Gamaa al-Islamiyya'?

The image captioned 'Members of al-Gamaa al-Islamiyya' visually represents individuals associated with the group. Such images can provide context about the group's appearance or activities, though the specific details are not elaborated upon in the text.

Al-jama A Al-islamiyya Wiki: Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya: An Analytical Overview of an Egyptian Islamist Movement

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Overview

Definition and Designation

Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya, translating to "The Islamic Group," is an Egyptian Sunni Islamist movement. It is recognized as a terrorist organization by the United Kingdom and the European Union, though it was removed from the United States' list of Foreign Terrorist Organizations in May 2022. The group's historical objective was the overthrow of the Egyptian government to establish an Islamic republic.

Post-Coup Stance

Following the 2013 Egyptian coup d'état that deposed Mohamed Morsi, the organization declared a commitment to pursuing peaceful activities. This shift represents a significant evolution from its earlier militant operations.

Historical Impact

Between 1992 and 1998, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya engaged in an insurgency against the Egyptian state, resulting in hundreds of casualties among security forces, group members, civilians, and tourists. This period significantly impacted Egypt's internal security and economy, particularly the vital tourism sector.

Historical Trajectory

University Origins

Emerging in the 1970s, Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya began as an umbrella organization for militant student groups, primarily active on university campuses. It gained significant influence by the late 1970s, displacing leftist student organizations and advocating for stricter Islamic practices within academic institutions.

Escalation and Violence

The group's activities escalated, marked by opposition to the Camp David Accords and involvement in sectarian clashes. By the 1990s, it launched a sustained campaign of violence, including assassinations of intellectuals and attacks targeting tourists, aiming to destabilize the Egyptian government.

Assassination of Farag Foda (1992).
Attempted assassination of President Hosni Mubarak (1995).
Car bomb attack in Rijeka, Croatia (1995).
Cairo shooting targeting tourists (1996).
Luxor massacre at the Temple of Hatshepsut (1997), resulting in 58 tourist deaths.

Renunciation and Transition

Facing severe government crackdowns and public backlash against its violent tactics, particularly the Luxor massacre, the group initiated a nonviolence initiative in 1997. Many leaders renounced violence, and a significant number of members were released from prison in the following years. Post-2011, the movement formed the Building and Development Party, participating in Egyptian parliamentary elections.

Ideological Framework

Influence of Sayyid Qutb

Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya drew heavily from the writings of Islamist ideologue Sayyid Qutb, particularly his work "Milestones" (Ma'alim fi al-Tariq). The group emphasized the concept of divine sovereignty (Tawhid) as a call for liberation from corrupting influences, including secular governance and societal norms.

Vision for Governance

The movement advocated for an Islamic system that would regulate all aspects of life, including government, law, and economics. They viewed Islam as a comprehensive ideology (nizam kamil wa shamil) and attributed Egypt's societal problems to a deviation from Islamic principles.

Social and Political Goals

Key goals included the implementation of Sharia law, the promotion of Islamic dress and social segregation, and opposition to secularism and foreign influence, particularly the peace treaty with Israel. They saw societal changes like increased religious observance and modest dress as signs of the growth of an Islamic movement.

Operational History

Targeted Assassinations

The group was responsible for the assassination of prominent Egyptian intellectuals and political figures who were critical of their ideology. The killing of writer Farag Foda in 1992 is a notable example of this tactic.

Tourism and Economic Impact

A significant aspect of their campaign involved attacks on foreign tourists, aiming to disrupt the Egyptian economy and pressure the government. The 1997 Luxor massacre, where 58 tourists were killed, severely impacted the tourism industry for years and led to widespread condemnation.

Confrontation with the State

The group engaged in a direct insurgency against the Egyptian state from 1992 to 1998. This period involved numerous clashes with security forces, leading to substantial casualties on both sides. The government responded with extensive crackdowns, arresting thousands of suspected members.

Key Figures

Spiritual Leadership

The cleric Omar Abdel-Rahman served as the spiritual leader of the movement. He was later convicted in the United States for his involvement in conspiracies, including the 1993 World Trade Center bombing and plots against New York City landmarks. His imprisonment and subsequent death in 2017 were focal points for the group's campaigns.

Operational Leaders

Prominent operational leaders included Karam Zuhdi, Ala Mohieddin, Tal'at Fu'ad Qasim, and Ahmed Refai Taha. Several of these figures were involved in major attacks and leadership roles within the organization. Some were killed in action or apprehended by authorities.

External Relations

International Designations

Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya has been officially designated as a terrorist organization by several countries and international bodies, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Israel, and Russia. These designations reflect the group's past involvement in international terrorism and violent activities.

Alleged Alliances

Reports indicate alleged alliances and support from entities such as Iran and Sudan during its insurgency period. Furthermore, factions within the group have reportedly allied with Al-Qaeda, with leaders appearing in joint statements. However, other members have denied these affiliations, indicating internal divisions on strategic alliances.

Analysis and Context

Legal Status and Evolution

The group's designation as a terrorist organization by various governments underscores its historical role in violent extremism. However, its stated commitment to peaceful activities post-2013 and its participation in the political process through the Building and Development Party indicate a significant transformation, though the extent and sincerity of this shift remain subjects of analysis.

Public Support and Opposition

While the group's violent actions, particularly the Luxor massacre, alienated a significant portion of the Egyptian public, it is noted that the movement retained some popular support among Islamists critical of Egypt's secular policies and peace treaty with Israel. The renunciation of violence by many leaders and members has been a key factor in its reduced profile in recent years.

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References

Murphy, Caryle. Passion for Islam: Shaping the Modern Middle East: the Egyptian Experience by Caryle Murphy, (2002), p. 65

Mayer, Jane, The Dark Side: The Inside Story of How the War on Terror Turned into a War on American Ideals, 2008. p. 113

Zayyat, Nontassir, The Road to al-Qaeda: the story of bin Laden's right-hand Man, Pluto Press, (2004), p. 89

A full list of references for this article are available at the Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on publicly available data and has been refined to align with an academic tone suitable for higher education students. It may not encompass all nuances or the most current developments regarding the subject matter.

This is not professional analysis or endorsement. The information provided is not a substitute for expert consultation on political science, history, or security studies. Always consult authoritative sources and academic experts for comprehensive understanding and analysis of complex geopolitical and historical topics.

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Al-Jama'a al-Islamiyya

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

⚖️ Definition and Designation

🔄 Post-Coup Stance

📈 Historical Impact

Historical Trajectory ⏳

🎓 University Origins

💥 Escalation and Violence

🕊️ Renunciation and Transition

Ideological Framework 🧠

📜 Influence of Sayyid Qutb

🏛️ Vision for Governance

societal Social and Political Goals

Operational History ⚔️

🎯 Targeted Assassinations

✈️ Tourism and Economic Impact

🛡️ Confrontation with the State

Key Figures 👤

👳‍♂️ Spiritual Leadership

🎖️ Operational Leaders

External Relations 🤝

🌍 International Designations

🔗 Alleged Alliances

Analysis and Context 📊

⚖️ Legal Status and Evolution

🗣️ Public Support and Opposition

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Definition and Designation

Post-Coup Stance

Historical Impact

Historical Trajectory

University Origins

Escalation and Violence

Renunciation and Transition

Ideological Framework

Influence of Sayyid Qutb

Vision for Governance

Social and Political Goals

Operational History

Targeted Assassinations

Tourism and Economic Impact

Confrontation with the State

Key Figures

Spiritual Leadership

Operational Leaders

External Relations

International Designations

Alleged Alliances

Analysis and Context

Legal Status and Evolution

Public Support and Opposition

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice