Watch Recruiting For Jihad

Recruiting For Jihad is a riveting documentary film released in 2017 by Norwegian filmmaker, Ulrik Imtiaz Rolfsen. The film shines a light on the complicated and volatile topic of Islamic extremist recruitment in Europe. The story of Recruiting For Jihad revolves around former high-ranking Norwegian jihadist, Ubaydullah Hussain, and his efforts to lure young Norwegian men to Syria and Iraq to fight for ISIS. The film takes an intimate approach, showing Hussain's daily routines, thought processes, and his interactions with friends, colleagues, and recruits.

Adel Khan Farooq, a friend and associate of Hussain's, is also featured prominently in the film. Farooq is a Norwegian-born Muslim who converts to Islam and travels to Syria to fight for ISIS. The film documents his journey from a small town in Norway to the battlefields of Syria, where he ultimately lays down his life.

One of the most powerful aspects of the film is that it doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of ISIS recruitment. The filmmakers show how recruiters like Hussain and Farooq target vulnerable individuals, such as those with mental health issues, criminal records, or difficult family situations. They use deceptive tactics to lure their targets, such as promising them a sense of purpose, belonging, and adventure.

The film also explores the role of social media in recruitment efforts. Hussain and Farooq use Facebook, Twitter, and other platforms to communicate with potential recruits, share propaganda, and coordinate travel plans. Watching these interactions unfold is both eerie and eye-opening.

Throughout the film, the viewer is left with a sense of unease as Hussain and Farooq cavalierly discuss violence and extremism. It's both fascinating and frightening to see how two seemingly ordinary men can be radicalized to the point of advocating for terrorism and violence.

Despite its darker subject matter, Recruiting For Jihad isn't a gratuitously violent film. The focus is on the human element, and the filmmakers take great care to portray Hussain and Farooq as complex individuals rather than one-dimensional villains. The film also raises important questions about the root causes of extremism and what can be done to prevent it.

Overall, Recruiting For Jihad is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary that provides important insights into the world of Islamic extremism. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the factors that lead individuals down the path of terrorism. Highly recommended.