Terrorism, the Future, and U.S. Foreign Policy
Abstract
International terrorism has long been recognized as a foreign and domestic security threat. The tragic events of September 11th have dramatically re-energized the nation's focus and resolve on terrorism. This issue brief examines international terrorist actions and threats and the U.S. policy response. Available policy options range from diplomacy, international cooperation, and constructive engagement to economic sanctions, covert action, physical security enhancement, and military force. The recent terrorist incidents in the United States as well as the U.S.S. Cole, 1993 World Trade Center, and U.S. embassy bombings in Africa have brought the issue of terrorism to the forefront of American public interest. Questions relate to whether U.S. policy and organizational mechanisms are adequate to deal with state-sponsored terrorism and that undertaken by independent groups. Terrorist activities supported by sophisticated planning and logistics as well as possible access to CBRN weaponry raise a host of new issues. Faced with such prospects, governments are increasingly likely to consider utilizing covert operations to protect their citizenry. What in the recent past was some analysts' belief that a comprehensive review of U.S. terrorism policy, organizational structure, and preparedness to respond to major terrorist incidents in the United States is needed, has by necessity become a mainstream view. Radical Islamic fundamentalist groups pose a major terrorist threat to U.S. interests and friendly regimes. Nations facing difficult challenges include Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Pakistan, and to a lesser degree, Russia and Saudi Arabia. One of the seven states on the State Department's terrorism list, Iran, is seen as the most active state sponsor. Sanctions have not deterred its activity to any meaningful degree. Some see utility in creation of an informal "watch-list" of nations not currently qualifying for inclusion on the terrorism list.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 13, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA481132
Entities
People
- Raphael F. Perl
Organizations
- Library of Congress