Geopolitics and Counterterrorism

As it enters a new era of strategic competition, the United States and its network of allies faces a diversifying array of terrorism threats—from new far-right actors to longstanding Salafi-jihadist networks and groups. Moreover, state adversaries will likely eagerly exploit these non-state actors in advancing their own geopolitical goals. Accordingly, the United States finds itself in a counterterrorism dilemma, managing a three-front counterterrorism struggle at precisely the moment it wishes to reallocate resources to the Indo-Pacific. It would be well-served leaning into competitive advantages developed during the War on Terror, building on successes from the counterterrorism fight to better prepare to confront strategic rivals.