Al-Zarqawi is dead. Wouldn't Al-Qaeda just replace him?

Question

I don't know how these things go. Can anyone tell me if this is really a big thing?

Answer 1

I would say they would because they have a lot of followers

Answer 2

I don't know much either. , but for years now we've heard the same report every couple of weeks "Today in Iraq US and coalition forces captured/killed aslkdjdj asd-sdfjllsdlfj, second in command in Al-Qaeda, or number 2 on the US most wanted terrorist list." It seems like there's always a new "top figure" being captured, and more just crop up. I guess Al-Zarqawi was a big dog in all of it, so I'm sure his death was more significant than the others. And it demonstrates they've made progress, and probably will boost moral with US and Iraqi forces, and maybe will disrupt Al-qaeda operations to some degree. In the end though, some new war-lord will pop up soon. Not to mention the violence and retaliation that will probably come from Zarqawi's supporters.

I don't mean to take away from the efforts that were made to capture Zarqawi, I'm sure it was a HUGE intelligence and strategical accomplishment for the US/Coalition, and I commend everyone involved for their efforts (although I don't particularly support the war, I do support the troops who are risking their lives). Unfortunately, I just fear that his death won't change anything.

Answer 3

Al-Qaeda did not put him in power to start with. He founded his own group and was active before Al-Qaeda became famous. Once Bin Lada's effectiveness was reduced (trapped in a cave in Pakistan), he proclaimed himself the new leader and stepped up his terrorist, even though he was not a member of Al-Qaeda before that.

With his death, it remains to be seen whether his followers will continue, or fall apart from within. Strong leader like Al-Zarqawi rarely have someone who can step in. The first leader is usually scared to have anyone strong or effective close to him.

Will the terrorism continue? Probably. Will Al-Zarqawi's group remain major players? Only time will tell.

Answer 4

It will probably set Al-Qaeda back a bit, but the group will easily shuffle people around and someone new will take his place. Even so, I'm glad that the sucker is out of the way--he deserved to be eliminated I think.

Answer 5

it is not appropriate. Al qaida is almost a hydra. you chop back off one head, 5 improve decrease back. The seeds of terrorism have been intently fed by the Bush administration. One loss of existence won't replace the tide of anti-U.S. hatred. it is going to purely gasoline it and make Zarqawi a martyr

Answer 6

Yes, he will be replaced and the terrorists will want revenge for his death. Al-Quiada has grown to a huge organization because we went after Saddam Hussein instead of Bin Laden.

Answer 7

I suppose there are plenty of willing crazies to take his place,, think of it this way,, what would happen to the resolve of any army or nation should their commander get killed,, they would replace him right? well I guess the same would apply in this case they will replace him and keep the war going.

Answer 8

Its not a big deal, but the government as usual thinks we're all a bunch of idiots believing everything they say.

Answer 9

Yes, he will be replaced, but he was also a spiritual leader, sort of the equivalent of killing the pope...yeah there is another one...but the people won't ever forget that you killed him.

Answer 10

Probably