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 9/11 terrorist incidents in the United States as well as the bombings of the U.S.S. Cole, World Trade Center in 1993, and the U.S. embassies 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. Some analysts' long-held belief that a comprehensive review of U.S. terrorism policy, organizational structure, and preparedness is needed has now 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. Iran has been aggressively seeking nuclear weapons technology. But sanctions have not deterred its nuclear activity to any meaningful degree because not all nations cooperate with the sanctions and because transfers of the requisite technology, components, and materials can occur through covert channels.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 25, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA481136
Entities
People
- Raphael F. Perl
- Rensselaer Lee
Organizations
- Library of Congress