Jihad is an Arabic term that refers to a meritorious struggle or effort in Islam, which primarily refers to the human struggle to promote what is right and to prevent what is wrong. The exact meaning of the term jihad depends on context, and it has often been erroneously translated in the West as "holy war".

In recent news, former Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal has called for "jihad" against Israel, urging citizens and government agencies of Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Egypt to join the fight. Shabaab, al-Qaedas branch for East Africa, has also expressed jubilation for the Hamas-led invasion of Israel and called for people to join jihad.

It is important to note that the call to jihad has rallied Muslims to the defense of Islam throughout history, and wars against non-Muslims, even when motivated by political and secular concerns, were termed jihads to grant them religious legitimacy. However, the jurists forbade attacks on civilians and destruction of property, citing statements by the Prophet Muhammad.