The story of the world's first super-terrorist

The episode opens with host Dave Davies introducing Joby Warwick, a veteran national security correspondent, who discusses his new book, 'The Jackal,' which explores the life and crimes of Carlos the Jackal, one of the most infamous terrorists of the 1970s and 80s. Warwick highlights how terrorism prior to 9/11 was characterized by relatively lax security and the creation of international templates for terrorism, exemplified by Carlos's daring operations.

Warwick details Carlos's origins in Venezuela as Ilić Shiramiri Sánchez, from a Marxist family with a revolutionary spirit. His fascination with being an international revolutionary led him to join Palestinian resistance groups, notably the PFLP, and work with Wadi Haddad. His early attacks, like the 1973 attempted assassination of a British Jewish businessman, showcase his ruthless commitment and the beginnings of his reputation.

Carlos gained notoriety through audacious attacks, such as the 1974 embassy hostage situation in the Netherlands, and the 1975 OPEC hostage crisis in Vienna, where he boldly announced himself and took 62 hostages. Warwick emphasizes Carlos's characteristic charm and showmanship during these operations, including his ability to walk freely after deadly assaults and his accumulation of wealth and fame. His involvement in various high-profile terrorist endeavors underscores his role as a 'super terrorist'.

Warwick discusses Carlos's narcissism, lack of empathy, and egocentric behavior, which drove his violent acts not out of ideology but to enhance his fame. Despite his violence, Warwick notes Carlos’s superficial ideological commitment, revealing his actions were often for self-glorification rather than for the oppressed causes he purported to represent.

After falling out with the Palestinian groups who expelled him for his arrogance and failure to follow orders, Carlos transformed into a mercenary-for-hire. Warwick explains how Carlos profited from being a terrorist for rent, working with verschillende clients and governments, becoming a terrorist for hire, and embodying the modern 'mercenary terrorist' model.

Warwick highlights the 1975 Vienna attack against the OPEC headquarters, a symbolically and practically significant event where Carlos took high-profile hostages and demanded ransom, cementing his reputation. His subsequent moves, including the 1994 capture facilitated by a CIA operation, are discussed, illustrating the toll of decades on the run.

Warwick recounts his personal interview with Carlos in prison, where the terrorist showed no remorse and expressed regret only about not killing more enemies. Warwick reflects on the banality of evil, noting Carlos’s shallow ideology, egocentric motives, and the remarkable luck he had avoiding death and capture over many years, setting him apart from other terrorists.

Warwick concludes with insights into current trends, such as the resurgence of mercenary terrorism and the decline of religious fundamentalist groups like ISIS. He suggests the 'Carlos model'—terrorism for hire—may be resurging as a more common approach, facilitated by encrypted communications and the digital 'gig economy' of violence.