Finding a National Approach to Combat the Terror-Crime Nexus

Since 9/1 I, the United Slates has been acutely aware of the threat presented by terrorist organizations. The focus of this threat hns centered upon AlQaeda and its affiliates. Hezbollah, meanwhile, has developed into a highly capable and multi-faceted organization that has demonstrated a robustmilitary capability, a strong ability to use and manipulate information, while gaining an air oflegitimacy, specifically as a voice in the Lebaneselegislature. Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) organizations have also gained U.S. attention, largely due to the trafficking of drugs andhumans into the United States.The United States should develop an approach that recognizes the growing relationship between Hezbollah and TOCs, and the threet that itrepresents. This approach should address root causes, specifically the ungoverned spaces that serve as the operating bases for these illicit groups.The approach must thoroughly integrate all actions at all levels, U.S. Government and international, with specific focus upon second and third ordereffects with recognition of how actions influence root causes.