About
Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, born Ahmad Fadeel Nazal al-Khalayleh, was a Jordanian militant jihadist. He gained notoriety for running a training camp in Afghanistan and later becoming a key figure in the Iraq War. Zarqawi masterminded numerous bombings, beheadings, and attacks, contributing to the escalation of the conflict. He is known for reportedly turning an insurgency against US troops in Iraq into a Shia–Sunni civil war.
Career Timeline
Joins Afghan Mujahideen
Travels to Afghanistan to fight against Soviet forces, beginning his involvement in jihadist movements.
Runs Terrorist Training Camp
Establishes a training camp in Herat, Afghanistan, preparing fighters for future conflicts.
Operates in Iraq after Invasion
Moves to Iraq following the US-led invasion, establishing a base for terrorist operations.
Forms al-Qaeda in Iraq
Pledges allegiance to Osama bin Laden and forms al-Qaeda in Iraq (AQI), escalating violence.
Masterminds Major Attacks
Directs numerous bombings and beheadings, increasing sectarian tensions and instability.
Killed in Targeted Strike
Killed by a US airstrike in Iraq, significantly weakening AQI's leadership.
Legacy of Brutal Violence
Remembered as a key figure in the rise of radical Islamist terrorism, known for his brutality.
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Last updated: February 25, 2026