Handcuffs or Hand Grenades: The False Dichotomy of Extraterritorial Counterterrorism Operations
Abstract
Prior to the terrorist attacks on 9/11/2001, the U.S. s efforts to exact justice upon extraterritorial terrorist targets were either military or law enforcement actions. Both options included inherent limitations. Following the 9/11 attacks, law enforcement and the military were thrust together in the combat theaters of Afghanistan and Iraq where they learned each other s value and liability. Changes to U.S. policy designed to eliminate torture and abuse, coupled with the success of civilian terrorism trials in the U.S., supported the concept of employing a joint military and law enforcement solution to the extraterritorial terrorism threat. However, implementation of this joint solution will be hampered by the elimination or degradation of authorities for the use of military force against designated terrorists and terrorist networks. Additionally, Department of State requirements governing the movement of FBI personnel embedded with USSOCOM units overseas will continue to hamper the FBI s responsiveness on counterterrorism operations until policies are modified to accommodate the new counterterrorism paradigm.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 10, 2015
- Accession Number
- AD1175820
Entities
People
- Jeffrey D. Burgess
Organizations
- Marine Corps University