Terrorism and US Policy: Problems in Definition and Response

Abstract

Abstract : Lack of a clear, coordinated definition of state-sponsored international terrorism, failure to understand state-sponsored international terrorist groups as a system with inherent vulnerabilities, and a counterterrorism policy which does not target state sponsored terrorist groups center of gravity, all contribute to weak, ineffective US counterterrorism policy. This paper examines problems with defining state-sponsored international terrorism and proposes a new definition which encompasses several key points: the illegality of terrorist acts, the fact that they are politically motivated, and that such acts are acts of war. Based on Col John Warden's model of the enemy as a system, this paper analyzes state-sponsored international terrorist groups as an interdependent system in which attacking or isolating leadership is the key to rendering the system ineffective. His model is the basis for analyzing ineffectiveness of current US counterterrorism policy; rather than attacking state-sponsored international terrorist groups most vulnerable point (their sponsors), current policy is directed toward peripheral parts of the system (infrastructure and fielded forces). This paper proposes changes to US counterterrorism policy and organization to improve our capability to counter state-sponsored international terrorism.