Understanding and Defeating Islamic Extremists
Abstract
This paper addresses some fundamental, yet unresolved, questions concerning the nature and scope of America's Global War on Terrorism (GWOT), including the following: Is the GWOT a subset of a much larger "clash of civilizations?"; What is the definition of terrorism?; Who or what is the enemy in the GWOT -- is it terrorism, a radical ideology, or Islamic extremists?; What is the proper role of the military?; What is the enemy's center-of-gravity?; What is the United States' center-of-gravity?; What are the best strategies to achieve victory?; and How will the United States know it is winning, or when it has won? The author puts these questions into a historical and social context and presents several findings. He contends that this is not a "clash of civilizations," but a war against extremist elements who espouse a radical ideology and the use of terrorism. American foreign policy is seen by many as anti-Muslim. The United States is not engaged in a "war on terrorism" -- terrorism is a tactic. The United States must undermine the legitimacy of bin Laden's jihad. The enemy's center-of-gravity is their radical ideology. The United States can attack their center-of-gravity by de-legitimizing their ideology. The United States will be unable to completely attrite the enemy or eliminate their radical beliefs. It can, however, isolate and contain them. The nation's greatest potential asset in this endeavor is the silent majority of moderate Muslims; they are a critical yet unrealized friendly center-of-gravity. This is a war of alliances; America's most credible alliance has yet to form. The United States cannot "win" this war in the classical military sense. The military has a role, but it is not the sole focus of effort. The definition of success for the GWOT will remain elusive.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 17, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA463552
Entities
People
- Brent J. Griffin
Organizations
- Naval War College