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Armed Conflict in Syria: Overview and U.S. Response
"The Syrian civil war, now in its seventh year, continues to present new challenges for U.S. policymakers. Following a deadly chemical weapons attack in Syria on April 4, 2017, and subsequent U.S. defensive strikes against Syrian military infrastructure and pro-Syrian regime forces, several Members of Congress have called on the President to consult with Congress about Syria strategy. Some Members have questioned the President's authority to launch strikes against Syria in the absence of specific prior authorization from Congress. In the past, some in Congress have expressed concern about the international and domestic authorizations for such strikes in Syria, their potential unintended consequences, and the possibility of undesirable or unavoidable escalation of the Syria conflict. [...] U.S. officials and Members of Congress continue to debate how best to pursue U.S. regional security and counterterrorism goals in Syria without inadvertently strengthening U.S. adversaries or alienating U.S. partners. The Trump Administration and Members of the 115th Congress--like their predecessors--face challenges inherent to the simultaneous pursuit of U.S. nonproliferation, counterterrorism, civilian protection, and stabilization goals in Syria's evolving conflict."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Humud, Carla E.; Blanchard, Christopher M.; Nikitin, Mary Beth Dunham
2017-10-13
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Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate: S. 1884: Reporting Efficiently to Proper Officials in Response to Terrorism Act of 2017
"S. 1884 would require the primary government agency investigating an act of terrorism that occurs in the United States to report to the Congress not later than one year after completing the investigation. That agency would have to collaborate with the Department of Homeland Security and other federal bodies as appropriate. The report would identify weaknesses in national security and recommend additional measures to improve homeland security and prevent terrorist acts. In recent years there have been few incidents of domestic terrorism, so CBO expects that implementing S. 1884 would require a small number of reports each year, on average. Based on the cost of similar activities, CBO estimates that providing the reports would cost less than $500,000 annually; such spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds."
United States. Congressional Budget Office
2017-10-12
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Antiterrorism Assistance Program: State Should Improve Data Collection and Participant Oversight, Statement of Jason Bair, Acting Director, International Affairs and Trade, Testimony Before the Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa, Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives
"I am pleased to be here to discuss our work regarding the Department of State's (State) management of its Antiterrorism Assistance (ATA) program. Building partner capacity is a central focus of U.S. counterterrorism strategy, and the ATA program is among State's mechanisms for accomplishing that goal. ATA's primary mission is to enhance foreign partners' capabilities to prevent acts of terrorism, address terrorism incidents when they do occur, and apprehend and prosecute those involved in such acts. In fiscal years 2012 through 2016, State allocated about $715 million to the ATA program, which it reports to have used to train about 56,000 security force officials from more than 34 partner nations. At least 2,700 of those participants were trained at facilities in the United States. In December 2015, media reports alleged potential security vulnerabilities at a subcontracted training facility used by ATA in the United States and suggested possible weaknesses in State's management of the ATA program, including the vetting of potential participants, the security of training facilities, and the unauthorized departure of participants from ATA training. My testimony today summarizes the findings from our September 2017 report, which is being released today, on State's ATA program management. This testimony addresses for fiscal years 2012 through 2016, (1) the steps State has taken to ensure that facilities used for domestic ATA training align with applicable facility and equipment security requirements, (2) State's vetting of domestic ATA participants for human rights concerns and terrorist activity screening, and (3) State's ability to oversee ATA participants, including those trained in the United States."
United States. Government Accountability Office
Bair, Jason
2017-10-04
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Antiterrorism Assistance: State Department Should Improve Data Collection and Participant Oversight, Report to the Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa, Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives
"State's ATA [Antiterrorism Assistance] program aims to enhance foreign partners' capabilities to prevent acts of terrorism, address terrorism incidents when they do occur, and apprehend and prosecute those involved in such acts. In fiscal years 2012 through 2016, State allocated about $715 million to the ATA program, which it reports to have used to train about 56,000 security force officials from more than 34 partner nations. At least 2,700 of those participants were trained at facilities in the United States. GAO [Government Accountability Office] was asked to review ATA program management. This report examines, among other objectives, (1) State's ability to oversee ATA participants trained in the United States and (2) the steps State has taken to ensure that facilities used for domestic ATA training align with applicable security requirements. GAO conducted fieldwork at two domestic training facilities selected because they provide tactical training; analyzed State and DHS data and documentation related to fiscal year 2012 through 2016 domestic training participants; and interviewed State and DHS officials, including those who oversee ATA training for three partner nations receiving significant ATA training. GAO also interviewed contractors who help implement the ATA program and analyzed related documents."
United States. Government Accountability Office
2017-09
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Domestic Terrorism: An Overview [August 21, 2017]
"The emphasis of counterterrorism policy in the United States since Al Qaeda's attacks of September 11, 2001 (9/11) has been on jihadist terrorism. However, in the last decade, domestic terrorists-people who commit crimes within the homeland and draw inspiration from U.S.-based extremist ideologies and movements-have killed American citizens and damaged property across the country. Not all of these criminals have been prosecuted under federal terrorism statutes, which does not imply that domestic terrorists are taken any less seriously than other terrorists. The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) do not officially designate domestic terrorist organizations, but they have openly delineated domestic terrorist 'threats'. These include individuals who commit crimes in the name of ideologies supporting animal rights, environmental rights, anarchism, white supremacy, anti-government ideals, black separatism, and beliefs about abortion. The boundary between constitutionally protected legitimate protest and domestic terrorist activity has received public attention. This boundary is highlighted by a number of criminal cases involving supporters of animal rights-one area in which specific legislation related to domestic terrorism has been crafted. The Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act (P.L. 109-374) expands the federal government's legal authority to combat animal rights extremists who engage in criminal activity. Signed into law in November 2006, it amended the Animal Enterprise Protection Act of 1992 (P.L. 102-346)."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Bjelopera, Jerome P.
2017-08-21
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National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) [August 18, 2017]
"The National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) is one of several mission centers operating within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. NCTC was established in August 2004 as the primary U.S. government organization responsible for analyzing and integrating all intelligence - except intelligence solely related to domestic terrorism - pertaining to terrorism and counterterrorism (CT)."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
2017-08-18
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Saudi Arabia: Background and U.S. Relations [June 6, 2017]
"In recent years, shared concerns over Sunni Islamist extremist terrorism and Iranian government policies have provided some renewed logic for continued strategic cooperation. Political upheaval and conflict in the Middle East and North Africa appear to have strained bilateral ties, but the Trump Administration has stated its intent to strengthen ties to the kingdom. Successive U.S. Administrations have referred to the Saudi government as an important partner, and U.S. arms sales and related security cooperation programs have continued with congressional oversight and amid some congressional opposition [...] U.S. policymakers have sought to coordinate with Saudi leaders on regional issues and help them respond to domestic economic and security challenges. Saudi authorities are attempting to reorient and revitalize the nation's economy, while streamlining public expenditure. Shared security challenges have long defined U.S.-Saudi relations, and questions about Saudi domestic and foreign policy may become more pertinent as leadership changes occur in the kingdom and as conflicts and competition continue in the Middle East region. Saudi leaders' assertiveness in confronting perceived threats and the effects of their sharpening tensions with Iran could affect U.S. security interests, including with regard to Yemen, Egypt, Bahrain, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq. Congress may examine these developments when considering the scope, terms, and merits of ongoing U.S.-Saudi partnership, proposed arms sales, and security commitments."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Blanchard, Christopher M.
2017-06-06
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Armed Conflict in Syria: Overview and U.S. Response [April 7, 2017]
"A deadly chemical weapons attack in Syria on April 4, 2017, and a U.S. military strike in response on April 6 have returned the conflict--now in its seventh year--to the forefront of international attention. In response to the April 4 attack, some Members of Congress called for the United States to conduct a punitive military operation. These Members and some others since have praised President Trump's decision to launch a limited strike, with some calling on the president to consult with Congress about Syria strategy. Other Members have questioned the president's authority to launch the strike in the absence of specific prior authorization from Congress. In the past, some in Congress have expressed concern about the international and domestic authorizations for such strikes, their potential unintended consequences, and the possibility of undesirable or unavoidable escalation. Since taking office in January 2017, President Trump has stated his intention to 'destroy' the Syria-and Iraq-based insurgent terrorist group known as the Islamic State (IS, also known as ISIL, ISIS, or the Arabic acronym Da'esh), and the president has ordered actions to 'accelerate' U.S. military efforts against the group in both countries. U.S. officials and Members of Congress continue to debate how best to pursue U.S. regional security and counterterrorism goals in Syria without inadvertently strengthening U.S. adversaries or alienating U.S. partners. The Trump Administration and Members of the 115th Congress-like their predecessors-face challenges inherent to the simultaneous pursuit of U.S. nonproliferation, counterterrorism, civilian protection, and stabilization goals in a complex, evolving conflict."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Humud, Carla E.; Blanchard, Christopher M.; Nikitin, Mary Beth Dunham
2017-04-07
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Review of Domestic Sharing of Counterterrorism Information
"In response to a request from the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and the Senate Judiciary Committee, the Offices of Inspector General (OIG) of the Intelligence Community (IC), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and the Department of Justice (DOJ) conducted a review of the domestic sharing of counterterrorism information. The OIGs concluded that the partners in the terrorism-related Information Sharing Environment - components of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), DHS, DOJ, and their state and local partners - are committed to sharing counterterrorism information. The partners' commitment to protecting the nation is illustrated by the actions taken before, during, and following terrorism-related incidents, as well as by programs and initiatives designed to improve sharing of counterterrorism information. However, the OIGs also identified several areas in which improvements could enhance information sharing. To share information effectively, the federal, state, and local entities actively involved in counterterrorism efforts must understand each other's roles, responsibilities, and contributions, especially with the involvement of multiple agencies, such as the DOJ's Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and DHS' U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), in complex investigations. […] Our review resulted in 23 recommendations to help improve the sharing of counterterrorism information and ultimately, enhance the Nation's ability to prevent terrorist attacks. We discuss our findings in detail in the Findings and Recommendations section of the report."
United States. Office of the Director of National Intelligence
2017-03
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Serial No. 115-6: The Future of Counterterrorism: Addressing the Evolving Threat to Domestic Security, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence of the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, One Hundred Fifteenth Congress, First Session, February 28, 2017
This is the February 28, 2017 hearing on "The Future of Counterterrorism: Addressing the Evolving Threat to Domestic Security," held before the U.S.House Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence of the Committee on Homeland Security. From the opening statement of Peter T. King: "We have an opportunity to carefully improve the homeland security of the United States. To whatever extent possible, this must include bipartisan cooperation and an eye on the vital issue of the safety and security for Americans. It is absolutely necessary to make progress as our adversaries will only continue to evolve. This hearing today provides our first step." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Edward F. Davis III, Thomas Joscelyn, Robin Simcox, and Peter Bergen.
United States. Government Publishing Office
2017-02-28
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Human Smuggling and Trafficking Center: Fact Sheet
"Section 7202 of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (IRTPA) established the Human Smuggling and Trafficking Center (HSTC) to achieve greater integration and overall effectiveness in the U.S. Government's enforcement and other response efforts to address the separate but related issues of human smuggling, human trafficking, and criminal facilitation of clandestine terrorist travel. In 2015, a National Security Council Deputies Committee refocused the HSTC's mission on human trafficking exclusively, in recognition of the creation and advancement of other entities managing the other mission sets. [...] Human trafficking is a serious human rights issue both domestically and across the globe. The HSTC brings together law enforcement, intelligence, and diplomacy specialists from U.S. government agencies to convert information into intelligence that enables law enforcement, policy and diplomatic actions."
Human Smuggling and Trafficking Center (U.S.)
2017?
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Serial No. 115-67: State Department's Antiterrorism Assistance Program: The GAO Review, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives, One Hundred Fifteenth Congress, First Session, October 4, 2017
This is the October 4, 2017 hearing on "State Department's Antiterrorism Assistance Program: The GAO Review" held before the Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa of the Committee on Foreign Affairs. From the opening statement of Ileana Ros-Lehtinen: "The Antiterrorism Assistance Program, ATA, is one of the State Department's key tools in advancing some of our national security interests. Its primary mission is to enhance the capabilities of foreign partner nations with the goal of allowing them to better detect, deter, and prevent acts of terrorism. The program also gives our partners the tools, the skills, and training required to respond to acts of terror and to apprehend and prosecute the individuals responsible for these atrocious acts. According to the State Department, since the program was first implemented in 1983, 84,000 personnel from 154 countries have been provided training, and the United States has provided bilateral ATA assistance to 34 partner nations. And while the majority of the ATA training occurs in host countries, or at regional facilities, we do perform a considerable amount of activities here in the U.S. This domestic training includes tactical training, which State has subcontracted out to just two facilities, one in Virginia and the other in North Carolina. And it was concerns that there may be lax security and oversight in at least one of these facilities that has led to the report that GAO [Government Accountability Office] is here to testify on today." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Jason Bair.
United States. Government Publishing Office
2017
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Reducing the Threat of Nuclear Terrorism - a Report Card on the Obama Administration's Efforts
From the thesis abstract: "This thesis seeks to explain if President Barack Obama's efforts to reduce nuclear terrorism have had a meaningful impact. Key areas of observation include how well efforts have been implemented and how effectively the president has fostered domestic and international support. Early in his presidency, President Obama declared to the world that the United States would lead a concerted effort to reduce the threat of nuclear terrorism. Combined with the Nuclear Security Summits, the president's efforts quickly established reducing the threat of nuclear terrorism as a top priority for his administration. Over the ensuing eight years, President Obama diligently supported nonproliferation measures by enhancing the domestic and international nonproliferation architecture. The president's integrative approach wove nonproliferation efforts together that had, traditionally, not been used to reduce the threat of nuclear terrorism. The findings of this thesis indicate that most of the programs were successful but problems remain, particularly in areas linked to further arms reductions and international nonproliferation. The next president can further these efforts by continuing the integrative approach, crafting a more cooperative relationship with Congress and expanding threat reduction activities beyond Russia."
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Hargraves, Drew P.
2016-12
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Return of Foreign Fighters to Central Asia: Implications for U.S. Counterterrorism Policy
"Central Asia is the third largest point of origin for Salafi jihadist foreign fighters in the conflagration in Syria and Iraq, with more than 4,000 total fighters joining the conflict since 2012 and 2,500 reportedly arriving in the 2014-2015 timeframe alone. As the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) continues to lose territory under duress from U.S.-led anti-ISIL coalition activities, some predict that many may return home bent on jihad and generating terror and instability across Central Asia. Yet several factors indicate that such an ominous foreign fighter return may not materialize. Among these factors are that a majority of Central Asians fighting for ISIL and the al-Nusra Front in Syria and Iraq are recruited while working abroad in Russia, often from low-wage jobs under poor conditions making the recruits ripe for radicalization. In addition, many of those heading for jihad in Syria and the Levant expect that they are on a 'one way journey,' some to martyrdom but most for a completely new life, and do not plan a return. Most Central Asian states face their greatest risk of domestic instability and violent extremism as a reaction to political repression and counterterrorism (CT) policies that counter-productively conflate political opposition and the open practice of Islam with a domestic jihadist threat. If improperly calibrated, greater U.S. CT assistance to address foreign fighter returns may strengthen illiberal regime short-term focus on political power consolidation, overplay the limited risks of foreign fighter returns, and increase the risks of domestic unrest and future instability."
National Defense University. Institute for National Strategic Studies
Lynch, Thomas Francis, 1960-; Bouffard, Michael; King, Kelsey . . .
2016-10
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Saudi Arabia: Background and U.S. Relations [September 20, 2016]
"The kingdom of Saudi Arabia, ruled by the Al Saud family since its founding in 1932, wields significant global influence through its administration of the birthplace of the Islamic faith and by virtue of its large oil reserves. Close U.S.-Saudi official relations have survived a series of challenges since the 1940s. In recent years, shared concerns over Sunni Islamist extremist terrorism and Iranian government policies have provided some renewed logic for continued strategic cooperation. Political upheaval and conflict in the Middle East and North Africa appear to be straining bilateral ties, but the full effect has yet to be determined. [...] Current U.S. policy seeks to coordinate with Saudi leaders on regional issues and help them respond to domestic economic and security challenges. Time will tell whether U.S. initiatives and, more importantly, Saudi leaders' decisions will ensure stability. Shared security challenges have long defined U.S.-Saudi relations, and questions about Saudi domestic and foreign policy may become more pertinent as leadership changes occur in the kingdom and as conflicts and competition continue in the Middle East region. Saudi leaders' assertiveness in confronting perceived threats and the effects of their sharpening tensions with Iran could affect U.S. security interests, including with regard to Yemen, Egypt, Bahrain, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Iran. Congress may examine these developments when considering the scope, terms, and merits of ongoing U.S.-Saudi partnership, proposed arms sales, and security commitments."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Blanchard, Christopher M.
2016-09-20
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State and Local Perspectives on Federal Information Sharing, Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence of the Committee on Homeland Security, United States House of Representatives, One Hundred Fourteenth Congress, Second Session, September 8, 2016
This testimony compilation is from the September 8, 2016 hearing, "State and Local Perspectives on Federal Information Sharing," before the House Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence. From the opening statement of Subcommittee Chairman Peter King: "While carrying out critical security and public safety missions, U.S. law enforcement is facing an increased threat environment. Since September 11, 2001, there have been 166 plots within the United States linked to Islamist terror groups with the vast majority occurring since 2009. In May, FBI Director Comey stated that the Bureau has over 800 open cases related to individuals in the U.S. with links to ISIS [Islamic State of Iraq and Syria]. The terror group has called for attacks against law enforcement directly. In January 2015, a statement from the now deceased spokesman for ISIS, Abu Mohammad al-Adnani, called on supporters to 'rise up and kill intelligence officers, police officers, soldiers, and civilians.' [...] Also troubling is the increase in domestic threats against law enforcement. In some tragic instances, these threats have turned into violence. The National Law Enforcement Memorial Fund website reports there have been 11 shooting ambush attacks on law enforcement in 2016 to date." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Richard Beary, Mike Sena, and Cedric Alexander.
United States. Congress. House. Committee on Homeland Security
2016-09-08
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Sovereign Citizen Movement: An Empirical Study on the Rise in Activity, Explanations of Growth, and Policy Prescriptions
From the thesis abstract: "The United States faces a domestic threat that is largely ignored by counterterrorism practitioners and policy: the Sovereign Citizens Movement. The adherents of this antigovernment movement have committed violent, even terroristic, acts and employed paper terrorism tactics. The group clogs courts and harasses government officials, but a paucity of hard data on the Sovereigns has stymied any concerted or unified response. Law enforcement officials have yet to determine how many Sovereigns are active in the United States, where they are concentrated, or whether the movement is gaining adherents. This thesis addresses the dearth of information on the Sovereign Citizens Movement. It relies on both quantitative and qualitative research, providing a detailed analysis of 548 court cases. The assessment of the group's targets, related court vulnerabilities, and relevant statewide statistics can be harnessed into quality policy decisions. This work proves the increasing trend in Sovereign Citizen activities, exposes the gaps in the present literature and domestic terrorism policy, and provides recommendations for prescriptive policy changes across the spectrum of agencies responsible for countering domestic terrorist threats." Supplemental statistical information for this thesis may be found at the following link: [https://www.hsdl.org/?abstract&did=797197]
Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)
Slater, Brian S.
2016-09
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Mass Shootings and Terrorism: CRS Products [Updated June 24, 2016]
From the Document: "On Sunday, June 12, 2016, approximately 50 people were killed (including the alleged assailant), and 53 more were injured in an attack on a nightclub in Orlando, FL, that catered to the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. The alleged assailant was armed with a 5.56 caliber Sig Sauer rifle and a 9mm Glock semiautomatic. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) has reported that these weapons were legally purchased in Florida. During the assault on the nightclub, the alleged assailant reportedly called 911 to pledge allegiance to ISIS [Islamic State of Syria and Iraq]. The assailant was killed by police after a standoff that lasted approximately three hours. This incident is the worst mass shooting in U.S. history to date. CRS [Congressional Research Service] has several different products on issues relevant to the mass shooting incident in Florida. These issues include mass murder with firearms, firearms regulation, domestic terrorism, and hate crime. Below are key products on these issues. Congressional clients may contact the authors of the individual reports for additional information on the issues."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Lake, Jennifer E.
2016-06-24
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Mass Shootings and Terrorism: CRS Products [June 13, 2016]
"On Sunday, June 12, 2016, approximately 50 people were killed (including the alleged assailant), and 53 more were injured in an attack on a nightclub in Orlando, FL, that catered to the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, and transgender (LGBT) community. The alleged assailant was armed with an AR-15-type assault rifle and a pistol. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) has reported that these weapons were legally purchased in Florida. During the assault on the nightclub, the alleged assailant reportedly called 911 to pledge allegiance to ISIS [Islamic State of Iraq and Syria] . The assailant was killed by police after a standoff that lasted approximately three hours. This incident is the worst mass shooting in U.S. history to date. CRS [Congressional Research Service], has several different products on issues relevant to the mass shooting incident in Florida. These issues include mass murder with firearms, firearms regulation, domestic terrorism, and hate crime." This report contains a list of key reports on these issues.
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Lake, Jennifer E.
2016-06-13
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Sifting Domestic Terrorism from Hate Crime and Homegrown Violent Extremism [June 13, 2016]
"Domestic terrorism, hate crime, and homegrown violent extremism are three fairly distinct concepts that federal law enforcement agencies use to categorize key types of criminals whose illegal activities are at least partly ideologically motivated. […] Domestic terrorism cases differ from ordinary criminal activity in key ways. Most importantly, unlike ordinary criminals--who are often driven by self-centered motives such as profit and tend to opportunistically seek easy prey--domestic terrorists are driven by a cause or ideology. If the motives involved eventually align with the definition laid out in 18 U.S.C. §2331(5), presumably the case becomes a domestic terrorist investigation. […] Current federal law defines hate crimes to include any crime against either person or property in which the offender intentionally selects the victim because of the victim's actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, disability, or sexual orientation. Hate crimes may appear to involve ideological issues. However, as described by one FBI official, a 'hate crime' 'generally involve[s] acts of personal malice directed at individuals' and is missing the broader motivations driving acts of domestic terrorism. […] The FBI and DHS have popularized the phrase 'homegrown violent extremist' (HVE). It divides domestic terrorists from U.S.-based terrorists motivated by the ideologies of foreign terrorist organizations. According to DHS and the FBI, a HVE is 'a person of any citizenship who has lived and/or operated primarily in the United States or its territories who advocates, is engaged in, or is preparing to engage in ideologically-motivated terrorist activities (including providing support to terrorism) […]."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Bjelopera, Jerome P.
2016-06-13
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Saudi Arabia: Background and U.S. Relations [April 22, 2016]
"The kingdom of Saudi Arabia, ruled by the Al Saud family since its founding in 1932, wields significant global influence through its administration of the birthplace of the Islamic faith and by virtue of its large oil reserves. Close U.S.-Saudi official relations have survived a series of challenges since the 1940s. In recent years, shared concerns over Sunni Islamist extremist terrorism and Iranian government policies have provided a renewed logic for continued strategic cooperation. Political upheaval and conflict in the Middle East and North Africa appear to have strained bilateral ties, but the full effect has yet to be determined. [...] Current U.S. policy seeks to coordinate with Saudi leaders on regional issues and help them respond to domestic economic and security challenges. Time will tell whether U.S. initiatives and, more importantly, Saudi leaders' decisions will ensure stability. Shared security challenges have long defined U.S.-Saudi relations, and questions about Saudi domestic and foreign policy may become more pertinent as leadership changes occur in the kingdom and as conflicts and competition continue in the Middle East region."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Blanchard, Christopher M.
2016-04-22
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Lone Wolf Threat: A Different Approach
From the thesis abstract: "Domestic and international terrorism has arrived on the home front of the U.S. However, there is an emergent aspect to the terrorism threat that is rearing its head, the Lone Wolf. In developing a methodology and analytical model to combat this asymmetric and almost undetectable terrorist, four case studies are examined of lone wolf terrorism. From these case studies, and using the maturation of radical intent methodology presented, an analytical model with trigger points are revealed where the lone wolf can become visible and a Golden Moment is identified in which intelligence communities and law enforcement agencies can employ asymmetric strategic approaches to aid in interdicting the lone wolf terrorist."
Joint Forces Staff College (U.S.). Joint Advanced Warfighting School
Holder, James M.
2016-03-24
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Readout Of Secretary Johnson's Meeting With Republic Of Korea Minister Of Public Safety And Security Park [March 23, 2016]
On March 23, the Department of Homeland Security issued the following press release: "WASHINGTON-- Today, Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Deputy Administrator Joe Nimmich, Coast Guard Rear Admiral Mark Butt, and DHS Assistant Secretary for International Affairs and Chief Diplomatic Officer Alan Bersin met with Republic of Korea Minister of Public Safety and Security Park Inyong to discuss a range of shared homeland security-related issues, including critical infrastructure protection, counterterrorism cooperation, and lessons learned on disaster management and preparedness. Secretary Johnson and Minister Park discussed the importance of domestic information sharing and coordination to prepare for and respond to disasters, including terrorist incidents. The two sides also shared lessons learned regarding effective communication with domestic stakeholders as well as means to foster unity of effort among government agencies. Both sides committed to continue dialogue and cooperation. Secretary Johnson and Minister Park emphasized opportunities for increased cooperation on emergency preparedness and management, especially between U.S. Coast Guard, FEMA, and the Republic of Korea Ministry of Public Safety and Security. Secretary Johnson underscored the Department's willingness to provide training and support to enhance international partners' emergency management capabilities while strengthening bilateral relationships."
United States. Department of Homeland Security. Press Office
2016-03-23
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Turkey: Background and U.S. Relations in Brief [March 18, 2016]
From the Introduction: "Several Turkish foreign and domestic policy issues have significant relevance for U.S. interests, and Congress plays an active role in shaping and overseeing U.S. relations with Turkey. This report provides information and analysis relevant for Congress on the following: 1. General assessments of U.S.-Turkey relations and Turkish foreign policy. 2. Specific aspects of U.S.-Turkey dealings regarding Syria and Iraq, including a number of complicated issues involving the Islamic State organization (IS, also known as ISIS, ISIL, or the Arabic acronym Da'esh), Kurdish groups and other regional and international actors (i.e., Syrian government, Russia, European Union, Iran, Arab Gulf states), refugees and migrants, 'safe zones,' border security, and terrorism. 3. Key issues regarding Turkey's domestic politics. These include controversies and questions involving Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the ruling Justice and Development Party (Adalet ve Kalkinma Partisi or AKP), and the Turkish government's ongoing hostilities with the Kurdish nationalist insurgent group PKK (Kurdistan Workers' Party or Partiya Karkeren Kurdistan)."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Zanotti, Jim
2016-03-18
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Saudi Arabia: Background and U.S. Relations [February 5, 2016]
"Amid regional turmoil, Obama Administration officials have referred to the Saudi government as an important regional partner, and U.S. arms sales and related security cooperation programs have continued with congressional oversight. Since October 2010, Congress has been notified of proposed sales to Saudi Arabia of fighter aircraft, helicopters, naval vessels, missile defense systems, missiles, bombs, armored vehicles, and related equipment and services, with a potential value of more than $100 billion. Since March 2015, the U.S.-trained Saudi military has used U.S.-origin weaponry, U.S. logistical assistance, and shared intelligence to carry out strikes in Yemen. Some Members of Congress have expressed skepticism about Saudi leaders' commitment to combating extremism and the extent to which they share U.S. policy priorities. Nevertheless, U.S.-Saudi counterterrorism ties reportedly remain close, and Saudi forces have participated in some coalition strikes on Islamic State targets in Syria since 2014. […] Current U.S. policy seeks to coordinate with Saudi leaders on regional issues and help them respond to domestic economic and security challenges. Time will tell whether U.S. initiatives and, more importantly, Saudi leaders' decisions will ensure stability. Shared security challenges have long defined U.S.-Saudi relations, and questions about Saudi domestic and foreign policy may become more pertinent as leadership changes occur in the kingdom and as conflicts and competition continue in the Middle East region."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Blanchard, Christopher M.
2016-02-05
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Applying Private Sector Media Strategies to Fight Terrorism
From the Executive Summary: "The ideological threat of violent extremism is a global problem with domestic implications. Extremist groups conduct continuous communications campaigns, targeting vulnerable and receptive individuals to get them to self-radicalize and conduct violence in the name of extremist ideologies. As evidenced by Americans who have joined terrorist organizations or conducted mass casualty attacks, such as those witnessed in Orlando, Florida, and San Bernardino, California, the implications of violent extremist propaganda campaigns are becoming more complex, more widespread, and more deadly. The United States government (USG) currently spends billions of dollars each year to understand, communicate with, and engage various audiences, but its efforts in countering extremist propaganda remains fractured, uncoordinated, and inefficient. There have been numerous studies, reports, and reviews identifying problems and recommending solutions but no sustained success. There have also been attempts to enlist America's private sector to fight terrorism."
United States. Office of the Director of National Intelligence
2016?
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Serial No. 114-27: The Rise of Radicalization: Is the U.S. Government Failing to Counter International and Domestic Terrorism? Hearing Before the Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, One Hundred Fourteenth Congress, First Session, July 15, 2015
This is the July 15, 2015 hearing on "The Rise of Radicalization: Is the U.S. Government Failing to Counter International and Domestic Terrorism?" held before the House of Representatives Committee on Homeland Security. From the opening statement Michael T. McCaul: "Our Nation is grappling with a new wave of terror from the suburbs of Massachusetts to the streets of South Carolina. We have apprehended a string of assailants who, while living among us, plotted to cause mass harm in the name of their hateful ideology. Just days ago, U.S. authorities disrupted an ISIS-linked plot to attack an American university with assault rifles and improvised explosive
devices. The suspect planned to execute students and broadcast it live on the internet. Last month our Nation reacted with horror as another extremist launched an attack on Black worshippers at a Charleston church. Whether inspired by Islamic terror or white supremacy these assailants share one trait in common: They want to attack the innocent, intimidate our population, and coerce us in order to achieve their ideological and insidious goals. Both international and domestic terrorism and extremist groups are seeking to radicalize our citizens, and they have begun to master social media as a recruitment tool, placing people on a path of violence at an alarming speed. But we cannot bow down in the face of terror, and we must refuse to live at the mercy of fanatics. That is why we are here today: To confront the dangers we face, identify gaps in our defenses, and counter the viral spread of violent extremism." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Farah Pandith, Seamus Hughes, and J. Richard Cohen.
United States. Government Publishing Office
2016
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Committee Print 114-C: Compilation of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (Updated with Amendments Made through P.L. 110-417 (February 24, 2016))
"This book is designed as a ready reference of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (Public Law 107-296), as amended through Public Law 110-417. The information contained herein is current as of February 24, 2016. This document was prepared by the Office of the Legislative Counsel." The document includes the full text of Titles I-XX, which address the following topics: Department of Homeland Security, Information Analysis and Infrastructure Protection, Science and Technology in Support of Homeland Security, Border, Maritime, and Transportation Security, National Emergency Management, Treatment of Charitable Trusts for Members of the Armed Forces of the United States and Other Governmental Organizations, Management, Coordination with Non-Federal Entities, National Homeland Security Council, Information Security, Department of Justice Divisions, Airline War Risk Insurance Legislation, Federal Workforce Improvement, Arming Pilots against Terrorism, Transition, Conforming and Technical Amendments, Emergency Communications, Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, and Homeland Security Grants.
United States. Government Printing Office
2016
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Serial No. 114-134: Counterterrorism Screening and Assistance Act of 2015; Iran Terror Finance Transparency Act; and End Neglected Tropical Diseases Act, Markup Before the Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives, One Hundred Fourteenth Congress, Second Session, January 7, 2016
This is the January 7, 2016 markup on "Counterterrorism Screening and Assistance Act of 2015; Iran Terror Finance Transparency Act; and End Neglected Tropical Diseases Act" held before the U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs. This document contains the markup proceedings for "H.R. 4314, To require a plan to combat international travel by terrorists and foreign fighters, accelerate the transfer of certain border security systems to foreign partner governments, establish minimum international border security standards, authorize the suspension of foreign assistance to countries not making significant efforts to comply with such minimum standards, and for other purposes. H.R. 3662, To enhance congressional oversight over the administration of sanctions against certain Iranian terrorism financiers, and for other purposes. H.R. 1797, To facilitate effective research on and treatment of neglected tropical diseases, including Ebola, through coordinated domestic and international efforts."
United States. Government Publishing Office
2016
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Spain and Its Relations with the United States: In Brief [December 4, 2015]
"Given its role as a close U.S. ally and partner, developments in Spain and its relations with the United States are of continuing interest to the U.S. Congress. This report provides an overview and assessment of some of the main dimensions of these topics." These four topics include: "[1] Domestic Political and Economic Issues. The government of Spain is led by Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy of the center-right Popular Party (PP). The PP won an absolute majority in the general election of November 2011. […] [2] Regional Issues. The Spanish government is firmly opposed to a long-standing independence movement in Catalonia, a region of northeast Spain that includes Barcelona. In November 2015, Spain's constitutional court blocked an attempt by the regional Catalan parliament to begin the process of forming an independent state. […] [3] Counterterrorism. The United States and Spain cooperate closely on counterterrorism issues. An estimated 50 to 100 Spanish citizens and approximately 1,200 Moroccan nationals with Spanish residency cards are thought to have joined jihadist groups fighting in Syria and Iraq. […] [4] U.S.-Spain Defense Relations. Spain plays an important role in U.S. defense strategy for Europe and Africa. Four U.S. destroyers equipped with the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense system are stationed at the Rota naval base as part of the European Phased Adaptive Approach for missile defense in Europe. Additionally, Morón air base is the headquarters for a rapid reaction force of 2,200 U.S. Marines that protects U.S. interests and personnel in North Africa. […] [5] U.S.-Spain Economic Relations. Investment flows between the United States and Spain totaled nearly $80 billion in 2013, and the trade relationship totaled nearly $25 billion in 2014. Approximately 1,200 U.S. firms operate subsidiaries and branches in Spain."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Mix, Derek E.
2015-12-04
