Holy Terror: Inside the World of Islamic Terrorism

Based on interviews, field studies and internal literature, this is a blunt survey of the history, goals and influence of Islamic fundamentalism, particularly its Iran-based terroristic dimension. Khomeini is presented as one of history's great haters, a charismatic leader whose enmity is directed at all but the strictest adherents to his Manichean interpretations of the Koran. Images of blood and death abound: the Tower of Blood, a shrine in Tehran, is characterized by a guide as ""the essence of Islam's message.'' The book includes descriptions of the organization and training of such groups as the Brides of Blood and the Volunteers for Martyrdom. Taheri calls the Ayatollah's Holy Terror ``little more than a hodgepodge of medieval thought and methods borrowed from fascism and communism'' and scathingly remarks that death is its highest and noblest goal since it is unable to offer a life worth living. Taheri is the author of The Spirit of Allah. (November 9)