(BBC News) Jane Kinninmont - Unlike its Western allies, Egypt's leaders emphasize the view that all forms of political Islam are a threat to international security. Since overthrowing Morsi, they have banned the Muslim Brotherhood, calling it a terrorist organization. By contrast, the U.S. and Europe differentiate between forms of political Islam that they can potentially work with, and more radical violent groups. Islamic State's targeted violence has prompted cross-border military action by Arab armies. This is a marked contrast with al-Qaeda, which was targeted primarily by international forces or, within specific countries, by the domestic security services. The writer is Deputy Head and Senior Research Fellow, Middle East and North Africa Program, at Chatham House.
2015-02-20 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive