The Death of Osama Bin Laden

On May 2, 2011, United States President Barack Obama ordered Operation Neptune Spear to commence. That day the United States Navy SEALS raided Osama Bin Laden’s compound in Pakistan, where he was then killed.

This event will go down as a moment in history. This is the day that the iconic symbol of the al-Qaeda was shattered, the day where the victims of 9/11 were one step closer to recovering, and the day the al-Qaeda vowed to seek revenge. This day was a proud moment in the lives of the average American citizen. But were they too proud? There were numerous celebrations over this man’s death nationwide. Although this was a somewhat necessary action, shouldn’t we still show some level of respect? Celebrating over Osama’s death will only further instill hatred among the al-Qaeda. It is inevitable that the al-Qaeda will retaliate. As stated by this Islamist group: “We will continue to hunt the Americans and their operatives inside and outside their country. Soon by God’s help, their happiness will be turned to grief and their tears will be mixed with their blood.”

Since May 2, security has been intensified across the US. Although the al-Qaeda have been hindered by Bin Laden’s death, it is very likely that this group will continue to exist. Bin Laden was a charismatic leader and an important symbol for this group, however he was not their powerhouse. The al-Qaeda are largely independent of the main leadership. The al-Qaeda have called on Pakistanis to “cleanse” their country of Americans and have threatened that the reign of terror’ is not over.

Many Muslim countries are defying Osama’s original principles: that terror and violence is necessary to overthrow a dictatorship. The Muslim world is beginning to seek democracy through non-violent protests, and this is ultimately killing the al-Qaeda’s ideology.

Whether the al-Qaeda’s threats are real or not is unknown, but it is clear that the rivalry between both the United States and this Islamic group is growing immensely. This unresolved conflict is bound to lead to further retaliations or acts of violence, but only time will tell.

Central Theme

Over the course of this year I have developed an understanding of what “world issues” really means. Choosing one central theme for this course is difficult. Projects including the AIC Simulation, and the Seven Steps project were both interactive and invaluable experiences. I was able to become involved with these two issues and become a participant rather then a bystander. I believe that one major theme this course has taught me is the definition of a global citizen. The Seven Steps project or “Turning Passion into Action” was an experience that was particularly rewarding. I was able to see what exactly went into programs such as ECC and how it is possible for one person to make a difference, such as Mrs. Heidi Peragine for example. I also discovered that although these programs are time consuming and a lot of work, they provided such a positive outcome that it is completely worth it. In the future I hope to become more involved in such organizations. I want to do my part in society. I want to become a global citizen.

How World Issues Has Changed My View On the World.

World issues is a class that has forever changed my view on the world. I am used to the typical, straight sciences; it’s all I know. I must admit, before this class I was completely oblivious to what was happening in the world around me. I would only hear brief snippets of the news from my parents or peers. In other words, I was living in my own little bubble. At first I was a little unsure of taking this course. I’m interested in helping others, I love to volunteer, and I want to make a difference, but I did not know what to expect. I soon found world issues to be a valuable course to take. The in-class discussions piqued my curiosity and kept me updated on current affairs. I was able to stay connected to the world’s issues. Although I am not one to contribute much during these discussions, I still thoroughly enjoy listening to them and learning new things each class. Throughout the year this class has inspired to pick up a newspaper or browse the news online and then later discuss my findings with parents or friends. I hope to continue being knowledgeable and better yet curious about the world around me as an informed, global citizen.