The ‘War on Terror’.docx

War on Terror

A global military campaign launched by the United States and its allies after the September 11 attacks to combat terrorism.

Operation Enduring Freedom

A military operation initiated on October 7, 2001, by the US and Britain to combat the Taliban and Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan.

Guerilla army

A type of irregular military force that uses unconventional tactics, such as ambushes and hit-and-run raids, to fight a larger and more conventional military.

Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs)

Chemical, biological, or nuclear weapons capable of causing significant harm or damage on a large scale.

Shock and Awe

A military doctrine based on the use of overwhelming power and spectacular displays of force to paralyze the enemy's perception and will to fight.

Sunni and Shia Muslims

The two main branches of Islam, with historical and theological differences, leading to tensions and conflicts in countries like Iraq.

Coalition

A group of countries that join together for a common purpose, such as the US-led coalition that invaded Iraq in 2003.

UN Security Council

The primary UN body responsible for maintaining international peace and security, which faced challenges and divisions over the Iraq War.

Civilian casualties

Non-combatant individuals who are killed or injured during military operations, leading to significant human costs in conflicts like the Iraq War.

International terrorism

Acts of terrorism carried out beyond national borders, often in response to perceived injustices or grievances, leading to increased global security concerns.

Impact of war in Afghanistan

• 4,000 ISAF, 15,000 Afghan soldiers and 20,000 civilians were killed

• Caused Muslim anger that increased terrorism