Given these facts, complaints of 'quagmire' among supporters should not come as much of a surprise. And, as the Iraqi military continues to grow larger, stronger, and better equipped with each passing month, matters have grown that much worse.
Over all, polling shows popularity for Osama in general, and his Middle East policies in particular, is down among Muslims. This, of course, signals an alarming trend for the once popular terrorist leader:
Osama bin Laden's standing has dropped significantly in some pivotal Muslim countries, while support for suicide bombings and other acts of violence has "declined dramatically," according to a new survey released yesterday.
Predominantly Muslim populations in a sampling of six North African, Middle Eastern and Asian countries share to a "considerable degree" Western concerns about Islamic extremism, according to the poll by the Pew Global Attitudes Project, conducted by the Pew Research Center, a nonpartisan and nonprofit organization.
Mr. bin Laden could not be reached for comment; however, his press secretary, upon hearing the news, held a press conference during which he wagged his finger in front of reporters and cameras and stated, "no virgins for you!"
Ed:LisaM
Article comments
1 - Aaman
We haven't heard from Osama since Oct 29, 2004 - hmmm
Of course, the Al Qaeda is not the most significant of the charter members of the IIF, just the most well known hereabouts
The IIF is unfortunately still too active for any comfort - having waged operations in Bali,London,India and elsewhere in the last few months.
Nice last line - must remember that one:)
2 - Dave Nalle
Amusing stuff. Perhaps we could get a quote from Osama if we brought a psychic to the interview, since that might be the only way to do it.
Dave
3 - Victor Lana
David,
Enjoyed this piece very much. I hate to nit-pick, but isn't Zarqawi Jordanian?
4 - David Flanagan
Victor,
You know, I'm not sure. You might be right. I'll check on that. Thanks for raising the question.
David
5 - RJ
"isn't Zarqawi Jordanian?"
Yup.