Over the past two years, Zarqawi has become the leading symbol of the struggle in Iraq, in the eyes of both the Americans and millions of Muslim admirers. But more than being a symbol, he was the world’s most effective active terrorist, thanks to his organizational abilities, his ability to recruit devoted followers, and, primarily, his cruelty, which gave him the image of someone who stood boldly against the U.S. occupation of Iraq and the West in general.
His status was also strengthened by the fact that Zawahiri and bin Laden have largely ceased operations, due to the determined U.S. pursuit, their distance from the main front, and also failing health perhaps. In effect, over the last two years, Zarqawi became a leader in his own right, and even challenged their leadership. For instance, he did not hesitate to carry out attacks against Shi’ites, despite their opposition.
ANALYSIS: Killing al-Zarqawi more important than bin Laden – Haaretz – Israel News