Abdullah Azzam vs Josep Borrell

Azzam mentored bin Laden in Peshawar, Pakistan, during the Soviet-Afghan War. He influenced bin Laden's ideology of global jihad and helped establish the Maktab al-Khidamat (MAK), which recruited foreign fighters and funneled resources to the Afghan mujahideen.

Azzam published 'Join the Caravan', a seminal jihadist text that called on Muslims worldwide to participate in armed struggle in Afghanistan and other conflicts. The book became a key recruitment tool for the global jihadist movement.

Azzam was killed by a car bomb in Peshawar, Pakistan, along with his two sons. The assassination remains unsolved, but it is widely attributed to rival jihadist factions or internal disputes within the MAK. His death removed a key ideological leader from the movement.

Josep Borrell became the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, succeeding Federica Mogherini. He also served as Vice-President of the European Commission, responsible for coordinating EU foreign policy.

Borrell served as coordinator of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) talks, attempting to revive the Iran nuclear deal after US withdrawal. He facilitated negotiations between Iran and remaining parties, though talks stalled by 2023.

Borrell visited Doha to engage with Taliban representatives after the fall of Kabul, focusing on safe passage for EU citizens and Afghan allies. The visit was criticized by some EU member states for legitimizing the Taliban.

Borrell presented the EU Strategic Compass, a defense strategy outlining threats and capabilities. The plan included a rapid deployment force, cyber defense, and increased military spending, aiming to strengthen EU autonomy in security.

Borrell coordinated EU sanctions against Russia and military aid to Ukraine following the 2022 invasion. He pushed for arms deliveries and trained Ukrainian troops, while also managing EU diplomatic efforts to isolate Russia internationally.