The Effect Terrorist Labels Have on Military Operations
Abstract
This research presents an analysis of U.S. laws surrounding terrorism to assess the effect they have on military operations in asymmetric conflicts. Modern conflicts utilize unconventional approaches, such as co-opting or informing, as decisive operations in pursuit of military objectives. This research evaluates the extent to which U.S. laws on terror proscribes viable options to military leaders during combat operations. This is accomplished through an introduction of U.S. terror laws and their intended purpose, the difficulty surrounding defining what a "terrorist" is, and case studies of two organizations listed by the U.S. State Department as terrorists. Content of the research also includes historical applications of terrorism to assess whether terrorism is acultural (not culture specific), or is it a method used by a particular culture in pursuit of its interests. Findings from this research and analysis of information indicate that terrorism is a strategy or a tactic-not an ideology. As currently written, U.S. laws do not distinguish between acts of terror and the ideology that employs it. Consequently, the laws restrict tactical options available to military forces conducting operations in asymmetric environments.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 17, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA567572
Entities
People
- Leighton W. Anglin
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College