Whether or not Byman’s answers to such sobering questions are deemed satisfactory is hotly-contested. Essentially, what Byman offers the reader is a new pair of spectacles with which to view the war on terror.
Byman’s thesis reads:
I. The Military: We should rethink the role of the military. Rather than the U.S. Army fighting insurgencies, we can offer our military expertise to allied governments that will fight them directly
II. The War of Ideas: Because much of the battle is fought “over there,” we need to think hard about the abysmal world opinion of America. Instead of trying to justify unpopular U.S. policies, we should go negative and remind people of the jihadists’ unpopular deeds and theology. Make the debate about them, not about us
III. Intelligence: Intelligence, the most important counterterrorism tool, must emphasize working effectively with local partners. Cooperation is essential
IV. Homeland Defense: In the short term, democracy might be a boon for al-Qa’ida by weakening local governments and empowering anti-U.S. voices. Perception management and bolstering public will are often critical parts of a successful defense against terrorism
V. Democratic Reform: We must find ways to promote democratic reform without the spectre of an enemy rising up against us. When we cannot, we must recognize the limits of reform
A satisfying albeit sobering read. Without doubt one of the most comprehensive reads pertaining to jihadist terror attacks over recent years. What is more, its non-partisan nature is both refreshing and a beneficial rarity. From containment to a “crush” strategy, Byman examines the various approaches to the war on terrorism. In short, a truly realist(ic) hardback that is authoritative as it is timely, and one surely to be referenced by presidential-hopefuls Messers Clinton and Obama.
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