Originally published in French, this well-reviewed 2010 memoir by Osama bin Laden's former bodyguard provides an unparalleled account of life in the heart of al-Qaeda in the run-up to 9/11.
Reviews:
‘Bin Laden’s former bodyguard delivers a breath-taking account’ Tele et Vous 15 September 2011
‘An intriguing glimpse of life inside the al-Qa’ida chief’s lair’ Sunday Times 19 April 2010
Description:
Nasser al-Bahri lived at Osama bin Laden's side from 1996 - 2001, when he was arrested in Yemen.
In 'Guarding bin Laden' he recalls how he was radicalized by extremists in Saudi Arabia and began his 'pathway to jihad' while still in his teens.
Following periods spent in Bosnia and Somalia, Bahri found himself in the al-Qaeda Afghan HQ, Tarnak Farm.
He was soon spotted by Osama bin Laden and rapidly promoted to head of the al-Qaeda chief's personal security detail.
He describes assassinations attempts, unmasking spies, al-Qaeda's amazing arsenal and the extraordinary security measures put in place at Tarnak farm.
Al-Bahri portrays the leaders and their families, as well as the group's links with the Taliban and Pakistani security services.
He recounts the tensions and conflicts at the heart of the terror group as plans for the tragic events of 9/11 progressed.
Al-Bahri is the only verified, senior al-Qaeda member at liberty to tell his story. He hopes that doing so will deter other young men from jihad.
