In the article "Don’t Blame ‘Wahhabism’ for Terrorism," Mohammed Alyahya argues that attributing terrorism to Wahhabism, or Saudi Salafism, is an oversimplification that distorts the true causes of violent extremism. He claims that radicalism is driven by complex social, political, and psychological factors, not merely religious ideology. Wahhabism, he explains, is often equated with Salafism, a puritanical but typically non-violent branch of Islam. Most Islamist militants do not actually follow Wahhabi or Saudi Salafi teachings; groups like the Taliban and many factions of Al Qaeda have distinct ideological roots. Alyahya emphasizes that radicalization in Western contexts often involves individuals with little religious background, pointing out that they may turn to violence due to social alienation rather than theological conviction. Furthermore, he argues that the politicization of radical Islam in the Arab world has been fueled by failed governance, repression, and disenfranchisement, not simply by Saudi influence or religious doctrine. Do you agree or disagree with the claims put forth in this article? Defend your position.

In the article "Don’t Blame ‘Wahhabism’ for Terrorism," Mohammed Alyahya argues that attributing terrorism to Wahhabism, or Saudi Salafism, is an oversimplification that distorts the true causes of violent extremism. He claims that radicalism is driven by complex social, political, and psychological factors, not merely religious ideology. Wahhabism, he explains, is often equated with Salafism, a puritanical but typically non-violent branch of Islam. Most Islamist militants do not actually follow Wahhabi or Saudi Salafi teachings; groups like the Taliban and many factions of Al Qaeda have distinct ideological roots. Alyahya emphasizes that radicalization in Western contexts often involves individuals with little religious background, pointing out that they may turn to violence due to social alienation rather than theological conviction. Furthermore, he argues that the politicization of radical Islam in the Arab world has been fueled by failed governance, repression, and disenfranchisement, not simply by Saudi influence or religious doctrine. Do you agree or disagree with the claims put forth in this article? Defend your position.