What was the primary motivation behind the September 11, 2001 attacks?

The primary motivation behind the September 11, 2001 attacks was centered around the concept of a martyrdom mission for jihad. Perpetrators viewed the attacks as a way to advance their extremist ideological beliefs, where they believed they were participating in a holy struggle or jihad against perceived enemies of Islam, particularly the United States. This ideology framed the attacks as a means to inspire others to join their cause and to strike fear into the hearts of those they viewed as oppressors.

The attacks were designed to symbolize a definitive act meant to spur a global jihadist movement, reflecting a deep-seated belief among the attackers that their actions were divinely sanctioned. This motivation tied into broader narratives about the defense of Islamic values and territories against foreign influence and intervention, particularly by Western powers. Therefore, the framing of the September 11 attacks as a martyrdom mission clarifies the attackers' belief that their actions were not just acts of terrorism, but a noble sacrifice in the name of their faith.