Storming the World Stage: The Story of Lashkar-e-Taiba (Columbia/Hurst)
An impressive volume for its reliance on interviews conducted in Pakistan and elsewhere with officials, journalists, and, on occasion, some of the participants in the jihad. All of this brings a level of freshness to this work that is often absent.This is the first work of social science research on Lashkar-e-Taiba, revealing its diverse activities, from jihad to social welfare, and its closeness to Pakistan's Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI). A vivid and detailed account of a major Islamist actor.(Critique Internationale)Storming the World Stageis the definitive account of one the most dangerous terrorist groups in the world. Stephen Tankel's research in Pakistan is prodigious and his analytical judgements are well-calibrated. Highly recommended.An important and insightful book about the world's most dangerous terrorists, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and their complex ties to al-Qaeda and Pakistan's intelligence service. A must read for understanding today's global jihad.Lashkar-e-Taiba is perhaps the most important terrorist group of global reach after al-Qaeda, yet it is, unfortunately, less understood. Stephen Tankel's book now eliminates all excuses for ignorance. Vividly taking the reader into Lashkar's milieu, describing its organization and activities, and exposing its worldview, Tankel shows how continued apathy toward Lashkar-e-Taiba is dangerous not only for South Asia but also the West.Storming the World Stageis an urgent wake-up call about a group that will neither fade away quietly nor be ignored."an impressive piece of detective work"(Sunday Times)Storming the World Stageis one of those rare books that come out before their time is ripe. This militant Islamic group based in Pakistan and Afghanistan is the most dangerous in the world, and you will be hearing much more of it in the years to come. Mr. Tankel is ahead of his time.(Ahmed RashidTalibanandDescent Into Chaos)His study explains why, for so much of the world, Pakistan's image is shaped by militant groups like [Lashkar-e-Taiba].(Dr. Marvin G. WeinbaumMiddle East Journal1900-01-00)