Apocalyptic Terrorism: The Case for Preventive Action
Abstract
The judicious use of decisive force against terrorists and their support structures is a vital component of the U.S. strategy to defeat global terrorism. Another component is the development of a consensus that terrorism is contrary to international norms of behavior. Achieving such a consensus will be possible only if the United States can convince the world community that the counterterrorist struggle is being conducted in accordance with these norms. The United States, therefore, needs to articulate a strong case for the right of antiterrorist intervention based on three concepts adapted from international law: the classification of terrorists as the common enemy of humankind; a renewed emphasis on sovereign responsibility as the corollary of sovereign rights; application of the logic of the inherent right of self-defense to the realities of 21st-century terrorism. Achieving global consensus on a doctrine based upon these points will not be easy. But by articulating these principles and building on such steps as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and Organization of American States characterizations of the 9/11 strikes as "armed attacks," the United States and its allies can create a body of customary international law around which global consensus in support of a right of antiterrorist intervention can coalesce.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA430091
Entities
People
- Joseph Mcmillan
Organizations
- National Defense University