Beyond Hearts and Minds: How The Operational Commander Must Understand Islamic War-Fighting Doctrine to Secure Victory in the Long War

摘要

This paper examines the need for the operational commander to fully understand the religious, military and political doctrine of Islam's Prophet Muhammad if success is to be realized in the long war. The paper examines three specific topics; first is the need for the operational commander to study Islamic war-fighting doctrine. The second topic discusses the fundamental tenets of Islam not only as a monotheistic religion, but as a complete way of life in terms of a political and social system. The third topic explores Islamic war-fighting doctrine based on the teachings of Muhammad as outlined in the Qur'an and the Sunnah. The paper then closes with recommendations for the operational commander based on the analysis drawn from these topics.