An Enemy We Created

Main Themes and Topics

An Enemy We Created by Alex Strick van Linschoten delves into the complex and often misunderstood relationship between the Taliban and al-Qaeda. The book challenges the prevalent notion that these two entities are synonymous and instead presents a narrative that emphasizes their distinct ideologies and objectives. Strick van Linschoten meticulously examines the historical context and development of their relationship, revealing how these groups often diverged rather than converged in their operations and goals.

The work also addresses the policy implications of the perceived merger between these groups, particularly in the context of Western military interventions in Afghanistan. By scrutinizing and empirically testing the widely held beliefs about the Taliban-al-Qaeda connection, the book offers a new perspective on the motivations and strategic decisions of the Taliban, especially in the wake of events such as the September 11 attacks.

Writing Style and Tone

The writing style of An Enemy We Created is analytical and investigative, rooted in extensive field research and firsthand interviews. Strick van Linschoten's tone is objective and scholarly, which is complemented by his use of Arabic, Dari, and Pashtu sources. The book combines narrative storytelling with a forensic examination of the Taliban-al-Qaeda relationship, making it both an informative and insightful read. The author's experience in southern Afghanistan adds depth and authenticity to the detailed account of interactions among key decision-makers and ordinary fighters within these groups.

Brief Summary

An Enemy We Created provides a comprehensive examination of the relationship between the Taliban and al-Qaeda from a nuanced perspective. The book argues that the merging narrative of these two groups has often been oversimplified by Western politicians and media, leading to misguided policy decisions. Strick van Linschoten offers an in-depth look into the historical evolution of the Taliban's interactions with international militant Islamism, particularly focusing on the period from the mid-1990s onwards. The book concludes with a discussion on the current insurgency landscape and suggests potential ways to engage the Taliban politically while warning about the shifting dynamics caused by military interventions.