Brookings: Topics - National Security

A Response to Ken Lieberthal's Report on the Intelligence Community

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Brookings Federal Executive Fellow Matthew Frankel explores Ken Lieberthal's recent report, "The U.S. Intelligence Community and Foreign Policy: Getting Analysis Right." While Frankel argues the paper makes excellent points throughout, he examines several which he feels deserve rebuttal.

Transnational Drug Enterprises: Threats to Global Stability and U.S. National Security

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In testimony before the House Subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Affairs, Vanda-Felbab Brown discussed illicit economies, organized crime, and their impact on U.S. and global security. Felbab-Brown concluded by offering recommendations for counternarcotics strategies as well as other measures local and foreign governments can take to address the issues.

Examining the Procedures Used by the U.S. Intelligence Community

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:14:33 GMT

Ken Lieberthal reveals that many of the procedures and processes used by the U.S. Intelligence Community are flawed and often counterproductive. He identifies weaknesses in the intelligence services and recommends actions for strengthening this important tool of U.S. foreign policy.

The U.S. Intelligence Community and Foreign Policy

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Analytical products of the U.S. intelligence community (IC) are intended to provide information for policy makers to understand issues and make decisions. Kenneth Lieberthal assesses recent reforms in the IC and looks to where IC analysis still falls short, why those shortcomings exist, what reforms could help and how the IC can better serve policy makers.

Detainee Abuse Reviewed

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:48:41 GMT

Attorney General Eric Holder appointed a special prosecutor to investigate CIA operatives’ alleged abuse of terrorism detainees. Benjamin Wittes says officials from both parties question the reach of the inquest, but that Holder has acted entirely appropriately.

Fueling the "Balance": A Defense Energy Strategy Primer

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Department of Defense is the world’s single largest consumer of energy, using more resources than 100 nations. Peter Singer and Jerry Warner analyze what can be done to better manage defense energy security by implementing steps to increase energy efficiency and substituting alternative forms of energy to meet the military’s fuel needs.

Obama off to a Good Start on Security Issues

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon assesses Barack Obama's foreign policy record halfway through his first year as president. From Russia to China and India, O'Hanlon concludes that Obama is handling situations about as well as possible. In Iraq and Afghanistan, O’Hanlon believes Obama has been willing to take important advice from commanders on the ground as well as Secretary Gates to make tough but well executed decisions.

Obama's Defense Budget Gap

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration recently announced a defense budget that accounts for nearly zero real growth in the "base budget" over the next five years. Michael O’Hanlon explores the shortfalls of this plan and points to the lack of viability of the proposed budget. O'Hanlon outlines critical changes that must be made in order to best guarantee U.S. national security objectives.

Presidential Command: Power, Leadership and the Making of Foreign Policy from Richard Nixon to George W. Bush

Wed, 27 May 2009 10:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 27, 2009, 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM

On May 27, the Brookings Institution hosted former Secretary of State Lawrence S. Eagleburger and former Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Eric S. Edelman for a discussion of the book, Presidential Command: Power, Leadership, and the Making of Foreign Policy from Richard Nixon to George W. Bush (Knopf), written by the late Peter W. Rodman, a Brookings senior fellow.

The Future of Global Engagement: A Discussion with Adm. Michael G. Mullen

Mon, 18 May 2009 10:00:00 GMT

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May 18, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

On May 18, the 21st Century Defense Initiative at Brookings hosted Admiral Michael G. Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Admiral Mullen discussed the nature of global military engagements over the next decade and how our national security institutions should assess the future spectrum of threats in order to properly organize, resource and respond.

Civil-Military Relations, Fostering Development, and Expanding Civilian Capacity

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Critical stabilization and reconstruction missions abroad must not only be viewed through the lenses of short-term goals or military operations, but as a key step in supporting sustainable economic development. In a workshop report, Noam Unger and Frederick Barton explore ways to rebalance American statecraft by strengthening civilian stabilization and development capacity within the U.S. government.

Power Rules: How Common Sense Can Rescue American Foreign Policy

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:30:00 GMT

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April 20, 2009, 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM

On April 20, the Managing Global Insecurity Project at Brookings hosted Council on Foreign Relations President Emeritus Leslie H. Gelb for a discussion of his new book Power Rules: How Common Sense Can Rescue American Foreign Policy (Harper Collins, 2009).

The Obama Administration and the Americas : Agenda for Change

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration inherits a daunting set of domestic and international policy challenges. The Obama Administration and the Americas, however, argues that the new administration should focus early and strategically on Latin America.

Budgeting for Hard Power : Defense and Security Spending Under Barack Obama

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This timely book is the worthy successor to previous Brookings volumes on defense spending, including most recently O'Hanlon's Defense Strategy for the Post-Saddam Era (2005) and Defense Policy Choices for the Bush Administration (2001 and 2002). It continues our proud tradition of nonpartisan empirical analysis of defense issues.

Understanding the New Afghanistan Strategy

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Following President Obama’s announcement regarding additional troops and a new approach to fighting insurgents in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Bruce Riedel spoke to Charlie rose to explain what changes are planned and why they need to be made.

Guantanamo Detainees: Is a National Security Court the Answer?

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 10:00:00 GMT

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March 17, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

President Obama’s decision to close the Guantanamo Bay prison camp has left many thorny questions for his administration to resolve. On March 17, the Brookings Institution hosted a Judicial Issues Forum in partnership with the Progressive Policy Institute to examine these questions.

Changing How We Address Global and National Security

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to global security threats, there has been no shortage of wake-up calls. Bruce Jones, Carlos Pascual and Stephen Stedman examine a world of transnational threats where the actions -- or inaction -- of people and governments anywhere in the world can harm others thousands of miles away.

Warfare Balance Sheet

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon explores defense spending in Afghanistan, Iraq and other locations in the world where U.S. military personnel are based. O'Hanlon finds that changes planned by the Obama administration will save large amounts of money over the coming years, but he cautions that politics of defense will continue to make it difficult to deny funding which supports troops in the field.

A New European Security Strategy?

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jeremy Shapiro analyzes Pawel Sieboda's appeal for a new European Security Strategy.

Drug Wars in Mexico

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Mexico's Attorney General says his country does not need help in its fight against drug cartels. But some including Vanda Felbab-Brown see the increased violence as a national security threat to U.S. Felbab-Brown joined Diane Rehm and guests to discuss drug violence in Mexico and how it is affecting its northern neighbor.

Only the U.S. Can Win War on Drugs

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Andrés Rozental and Stanley Weiss examine Mexico's difficult fight against drug cartels and how the continued high number of Americans using illicit drugs is helping push Mexico toward the brink. As Mexico fights its war on supply, Rozental and Weiss argue the U.S. must fulfill its responsibility to curb the war on demand while also considering gradual legalization of some substances.

Resources for "Hard Power": The 2010 Budget for Defense, Homeland Security, and Related Programs

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

These are extraordinary times in American national security policy. The nation remains involved in two of the longest conflicts of its history in Iraq and Afghanistan, with more than 4,000 lives lost over six years in Iraq and more than 600 lost over nearly eight years in Afghanistan. In this Foreign Policy Working paper Michael O'Hanlon examines the multi-facted "hard power" budget options moving forward.

Despierta, América

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone writes that it is time for the United States, including the national security establishment, to close the gap between ends and means, in this review of Andre Bacevich’s latest book, The Limits of Power: The End of American Exceptionalism. (Spanish)

Homeland Security Agenda for the Obama Administration

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Though substantial progress was made on the homeland security front by the Bush administration, Michael O'Hanlon writes that the list of vulnerabilities is still very long. Targets are numerous, but O'Hanlon notes many are hard to protect and preventing catastrophic attacks should be the primary goal.

Development in Fragile States: The Toughest Cases

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 08:30:00 GMT

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January 12, 2009, 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM

On January 12, Foreign Policy Studies and the Wolfensohn Center for Development at the Brookings Institution hosted a workshop to examine Development in Fragile States: The Toughest Cases. The event engaged experts in a discussion of how the U.S. and its partners can more effectively sustain development in autocratic states and states in transition.

Investing in Peace

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Carlos Pascual analyzes the imprecise science of peace-building and what it means to failed or near-failed states. Pascual outlines the stages of progress needed to increase the chances of sustainable peace and explores ten key steps to meet the challenges of stabilization and reconstruction.

The Next National Security Adviser

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

One of the most important figures in Obama's administration will be his national security adviser. Ivo Daalder and I.M. Destler examine previous national security advisers to use lessons from the past on how to do the job right or wrong.

Memorandum to the Next National Security Advisor

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ivo Daalder and Mac Destler give the next national security advisor (NSA) advice on how to manage a heavy workload and prioritize tasks that only the NSA is in position to perform. They argue that trust and confidence in colleagues, building cooperation and getting close to the president are all important aspects of the job.

A New American Realism

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Carlos Pascual writes that President-elect Obama’s choice of a national security team reflects seriousness, pragmatism and bipartisanship. Pascual believes the selections indicate Obama will take a twenty-first-century view toward national security: energy, power, economics, human rights, terrorism and poverty must be part of the agenda.

National Security Issues in Civil Litigation

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

America’s civil litigation system begins to break down when a lawsuit requires the disclosure of secret information that could threaten the security of the nation. As a result, Congress should act now to provide federal courts with clear guidance for civil cases in which they must balance the competing demands of open justice and state secrecy, writes Justin Florence and Matthew Gerke.

The Surprising Absence of an October Surprise

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Terrorism analysts repeatedly warned that al-Qaeda might strike in the days leading up to the election, but November 4th came and went without incident. Daniel Byman explains why the U.S. did not witness any acts of terrorism in the run-up to this years election.

How to Fight Al Qaeda Now

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel joined Newsweek to discuss the continuing threat from Al Qaeda, their successes and failures, and options for fighting the organization now and in the future.

Strategic Counterterrorism

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 09:00:00 GMT

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October 24, 2008, 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM

Brookings hosted a discussion on U.S. counterterrorism strategies for the future as outlined in a new paper, Strategic Counterterrorism, by Daniel Benjamin, director of the Center on the United States and Europe and former National Security Council director for counterterrorism.

The Impact of Tomorrow’s Security Challenges on U.S. Northern Command

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 12:30:00 GMT

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October 24, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

The 21st Century Defense Initiative at Brookings hosted Gen. Victor E. Renuart, commander of the North American Aerospace Command and U.S. Northern Command (NORTHCOM), for a discussion of the impact of today's security challenges on the mission and structure of NORTHCOM.

A Better Place for the Peace Corps

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Peace Corps, although the standard of excellence for international volunteering, remains constrained by budget issues and low numbers of volunteers. In a recent World View article, Lex Rieffel proposes the creation of a Corporation for International Study and Service that includes the Peace Corps as one solution and outlines potential benefits.

Strategic Counterterrorism

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Terrorism is a real and urgent threat to the U.S. and its interests; a threat that could become far more dangerous if terrorists acquire nuclear or biological weapons. Daniel Benjamin explores the drawbacks of using military force in combating terrorism and elaborates on the need for a positive agenda for the Muslim world -- one that deepens U.S. engagement in Muslim nations as they seek to modernize.

Toward a World Without Nuclear Weapons

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The next president will have an opportunity to make the elimination of all nuclear weapons and organizing principle of U.S. nuclear policy. It will take a real commitment, at the highest levels and beginning with the United States, to turn what Ivo Daalder and Jan Lodal call the “logic of zero” into a practical reality.

The Search for Al Qaeda

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 12:30:00 GMT

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October 20, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

The Saban Center for Middle East Policy held a policy luncheon with Bruce Riedel, Senior Fellow at the Saban Center, to discuss his new book, The Search for Al Qaeda. Wendy Chamberlin, President of the Middle East Institute, offered insights on Riedel’s book. Martin Indyk, Saban Center Director, chaired the discussion.

Energy and the Environment: National Security Implications

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

For decades, energy has been an economic and national security flash point; and more recently scientists have warned of catastrophic climate change. Today, both presidential candidates list energy security and climate change as top priorities. In an interview with Politico’s David Mark, William Antholis described some energy security worse case scenarios, discussed where the candidates agree and disagree, and also where both are silent.

Our Enemies are Watching the Presidential Election

Sun, 12 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hady Amr and Ariel Kastner write that many throughout the world are watching the U.S. presidential election, including enemies like al-Qaeda. Rather than succumbing to fear, Amr and Kastner believe the U.S. must end torture, close Guantanamo Bay, and engage allies in order to drain the swamp from which al-Qaeda attracts its members.

How 9/11 is Connected to December 13

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel writes that the December 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament is connected to the September 11 attacks on the United States. As tensions between India and Pakistan mounted following the December attack, Riedel notes that large numbers of Pakistani forces were sent to the Indian border, which then allowed al-Qaeda members to move more freely in the western border regions while seeking safe haven.

The 9/11 Development Imperative

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

On the seventh anniversary of September 11, Lael Brainard and Noam Unger examine how the global development agenda has changed and how the U.S. can take critical steps to lead on efforts to reduce global poverty.

We Are a Service Nation

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As Senators McCain and Obama gather in New York at the ServiceNation Summit in New York on September 11, David Caprara and Steven Rosenthal examine the nature of volunteerism and service and how international volunteering enhances America’s public diplomacy efforts.

The Peace Corps and More

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Peace Corps is frequently noted as one of the best tools of American soft power since its creation more than 50 years ago. In a new policy brief, Lex Rieffel and Kevin Quigley recommend strengthening the Peace Corps and detail a specific proposal for the next administration.

Ten Times the Peace Corps: A Smart Investment in Soft Power

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Reversing the negative attitudes toward the United States that prevail in many parts of the world will require a mix of hard power and soft power instruments. Brookings Fellow Lex Rieffel and National Peace Corps Association President Kevin F. F. Quigley provide recommendations for scaling up the Peace Corps and argue that such an effort could contribute measurably to strengthening America’s relations with the rest of the world.

Understanding the Role of Islam in Counterterrorism Policy

Sun, 31 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the National Commission on the September 11, 2001 Terrorist Attacks emphasized, significant progress against terrorism cannot be achieved exclusively through the use of military force. Rashad Hussain and Al-Husein N. Madhany argue that in order to win the "battle of ideas," the United States government must carefully reformulate its strategy and work with the Muslim world to promote mainstream Islam over terrorist ideology.

Al-Qaida at 20: Is the Movement Destined To Fail?

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman notes that while al-Qaeda remains powerful, "it faces challenges on almost every front." From being denounced by once-friendly preachers to the serious setbacks for al-Qaeda in Iraq, the terror organization finds itself struggling to reach the goals it once believed were close at hand.

Al-Qaida at 20: From Obscurity to Infamy

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman assesses the "bloody successes" of al-Qaeda, from their inception through the present day. Byman argues that much of the credit should go to Osama Bin Laden for his leaderhip skills and also to the group's ability to transform itself to fit changing political and security environments.

"Game Changers" and the Military: Exploring Innovation and Leadership

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 11:30:00 GMT

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July 31, 2008, 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM

Brookings’ 21st Century Defense Initiative and the U.S. Army War College hosted Rep. Ike Skelton, Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, for a discussion on fostering innovative leaders within the U.S. military. Often referred to as “game changers,” these individuals are essential as the military faces a continually changing global environment. Rep. Skelton speech focused on the deep challenges the military faces in how to foster, train, integrate and retain these unique leaders.

Considering the Global Economy and Development in National Security

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A recent report issued by the Center for a New American Security outlines recommendations for a new national security strategy. Lael Brainard authored recommendations for the report on how to integrate global economic and development concerns into the national security framework.

Strategic Leadership: Framework for a 21st Century National Security Strategy

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A recent report issued by the Phoenix Initiative outline recommendations for a new national security strategy for the next U.S. president. Lael Brainard and Ivo Daalder authored recommendations for the report that seek to marshal the best practices and ideas of the progressive tradition in U.S. foreign policy and adapt them to a rapidly changing world with a multitude of strategic challenges.

Detention of Terrorism Suspects in Britain and France

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Testifying before the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, Jeremy Shapiro explored the system of detaining terrorism suspects in France and the United Kingdom. He noted that the threats and domestic situations in every country are unique and rules for detention must be rooted in pre-existing laws.

Surveying the Civilian Reform Landscape

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In a recent article written for a 2008 project of the Stanley Foundation and the Center for a New American Security, Noam Unger and Craig Cohen, associate vice president for research and programs at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, examine recent efforts to modernize U.S. civilian international affairs agencies.

The Decider Who Can't Make Up His Mind

Sun, 06 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Benjamin examines George W. Bush's foreign policy decisionmaking over the course of his presidency. Benjamin argues that despite conventional wisdom which sees the president as decisive and unyielding, Bush has in numerous instances exhibited "a chronic failure to reach decisions or implement those that are made."

To Win the "War on Terror," We Must First Win the "War of Ideas"

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hady Amr and Peter Singer address the critical role that public diplomacy plays in improving the deteriorating image of the United States in the Muslim world. They argue that both public diplomacy and policies, including those on civil liberties, are vital to U.S. success in the war on terrorism and that the next U.S. president must designate this effort as a matter of highest national security importance.

Pakistan and Terror: The Eye of the Storm

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel notes that Pakistan almost uniquely is both a major victim of terrorism and a major sponsor of terrorism. It has been the scene of horrific terrorist acts it has been one of the most prolific state sponsors of terror. Riedel believes there is no issue or country more critical to get right under the next U.S. president, which means developing a policy that will move Pakistan away from being a hotbed of terror.

Iraq's Long-Term Impact on Jihadist Terrorism

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman and Kenneth Pollack argue that the problems facing Iraq could have tremendous consequences for the broader "war on terror," particularly if problems return to or exceed levels seen at the height of violence in 2006. Byman and Pollack write that Salafi militants may use the country as a base for operations or attacks elsewhere in the region and that refugees from Iraq might spread terrorism, radicalize neighboring populations, and contribute to instability throughout the region.

The Road Ahead: Progress and Challenges in Iraq

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon and Jason Campbell assess where the United States is and where it is headed regarding the war in Iraq. They note that while problems remain, many important trends are moving in the right direction.

Terrorism and Weapons of Mass Destruction

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman submitted recommendations to the Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism for improving the United States government’s ability to conceptualize, organize for, and counter the threat of terrorists acquiring and using WMD.

A League of Democracies: Doomed to Fail?

Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone and Morton Halperin believe John McCain's proposal to create a League of Democracies is doomed to fail, partly because it revives a Cold War mentality pitting the "good guys against the bad." A better scenario, they argue, would be to reinvigorate the Community of Democracies around issues like economic incentives for developing democracies and confronting terrorism.

U.S. Overseas Military Presence in the 21st Century

Sun, 01 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The next American president will inherit an overseas military base realignment process guided by an effort known as the Global Posture Review. As Michael O'Hanlon argues, a successful outcome will depend on the next U.S. administration refining the current plan—and redefining the broader national security policy context in which base realignment will be viewed.

The Changing Nature of State Sponsorship of Terrorism

Wed, 28 May 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 28, 2008, 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM

The Saban Center for Middle East Policy hosted a policy luncheon on May 28, 2008, launching a Saban Center analysis paper of the same name. The paper’s author, Daniel Byman, presented a summary of the paper’s findings. Bruce Hoffman, Senior Fellow at the U.S. Military Academy and Professor at the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University, provided comments. Bruce Riedel moderated the discussion.

Rising Oil Prices, Declining National Security

Thu, 22 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As gasoline prices continue to set new records, David Sandalow recently testified before the House Foreign Affairs Committee on the national security threats posed by rising oil prices. Drawing from his book Freedom from Oil, Sandalow emphasized the potential for plug-in electric vehicles to help solve the problem.”

Managing Civil Violence & Regional Conflict

Mon, 05 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Fragile states are both a cause and manifestation of a breakdown in international order, and civil violence often ends up crossing borders. The Managing Global Insecurity project examines new challenges to regional and international security and offers suggestions for dealing with them.

Combating International Terrorism

Mon, 05 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

No state, however powerful, can defend itself unilaterally against transnational terrorism, and the most dangerous forms -- nuclear and biological weapons -- require extensive cooperation. The Managing Global Insecurity project offers recommendations for dealing with this threat.

Iraq: Winners and Losers at Five Years

Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Five years into the Iraq War, Bruce Riedel provides an interim report on the winners and losers to date. He writes that one of the biggest losers, despite the troop surge, is the United States. Riedel concludes by noting the next president "will face a monumental challenge of how to find a way to end a war we never needed to fight but whose legacy will haunt Americans for decades to come."

Iran, Terrorism, and Weapons of Mass Destruction

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman assesses Iran’s past and current use of terrorism as well as the threat of proxy groups using weapons of mass destruction at the request of the country's leaders. He concludes by offering recommendations for decreasing Iran’s support of terrorist organizations.

Resurrecting the Test-Ban Treaty

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon discusses the usefuleness of nuclear test-ban treaties and offers suggestions for the next president to build on the signing of past treaties.

The "Weak States" Gap

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Susan Rice and Stewart Patrick offer suggestions for policymakers to examine state weakness and prioritize efforts to address it based on their recent report titled "Index of State Weakness in the Developing World."

Assassinating Terrorists: The bin Laden Case

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel explores the history and failures of U.S. attempts to kill Osama bin Laden and what assassinations of terror leaders may mean for their organizations and enemy targets.

Al Qaeda’s Third Front: Saudi Arabia

Sat, 01 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel and Bilal Saab believe the war in Saudi Arabia is being waged over the biggest stakes of all: control over Islam's holy cities and oil wealth. Yet, having withdrawn most of its forces from Saudi Arabia in August 2003 after al Qaeda began its war, the United States remains on the margins.

Index of State Weakness in the Developing World

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Index of State Weakness in the Developing World provides policy-makers and researchers with a credible tool for analyzing and understanding the world's most vulnerable countries. Co-directed by Brookings Senior Fellow Susan Rice and Center for Global Development Research Fellow Stewart Patrick, the Index ranks and assesses 141 developing nations according to their relative performance in four critical spheres: economic, political, security and social welfare.

Weak and Failed States: What They Are, Why They Matter and What To Do About Them

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 09:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 26, 2008, 9:30 AM to 11:00 am

Brookings released the Index of State Weakness in the Developing World, an effort designed to provide policy-makers and researchers with a credible tool for analyzing and understanding the world's most vulnerable countries. Co-directed by Brookings Senior Fellow Susan Rice and Center for Global Development Research Fellow Stewart Patrick, the Index ranks and assesses 141 developing nations according to their relative performance in four critical spheres: economic, political, security and social welfare.

Have We Exaggerated the Threat of Terrorism?

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 19:00:00 GMT

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February 21, 2008, 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

The Crisis in the Middle East Task Force addressed the terrorism threat in its sixth session on February 21, 2008. This session, hosted by the Saban Center for Middle East Policy, assessed the risks of and appropriate responses to terrorism.

Trial by Fire: How Military Commissions Work and Why They Fail

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The trial of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed will test President Bush's military commissions, according to Brookings Benjamin Wittes, and reveal how they work and why they fail.

Terrorists and Detainees: Do We Need a New National Security Court?

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 10:00:00 GMT

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February 01, 2008, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

In a conference co-sponsored by the American University Washington College of Law and Brookings, panelists discussed the pros and cons of establishing a special National Security Court for the purpose of conducting major terrorism trials, and what jurisdiction should be assigned to such a court.

Mukasey Has the Capacity to Be a Great Attorney General, But Not the Time

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Attorney General Michael Mukasey has the capacity to be a great attorney general, writes Brookings Benjamin Wittes, but not the opportunity. Arriving a year too late, Mukasey will not achieve greatness himself, but might set the table for it in the next attorney general, who will have a momentous opportunity to institutionalize and shape the war on terrorism in law for the long term.

Building Capacity for Stabilization & Reconstruction

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In testimony before the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations Carlos Pascual addressed the need to increase U.S. stabilization and reconstruction capacity in weak or failed states. He notes that "stabilization and reconstruction initiatives require multilateral cooperation ... and the capacity to sustain them over at least a 5-10 year period."

Talking Sense: Guidelines for International Democracy Promotion

Mon, 31 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In this chapter from Democratic Responses to Terrorism (Routledge, 2007), Ted Piccone writes about democracy promotion as a goal of U.S. foreign policy, with a primary focus on the Islamic world. Piccone addresses and clarifies some assumptions about democracy promotion and offers guidelines for the future.

Energy Security, Energy Urgency: Key Issues Facing the Next President

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 09:00:00 GMT

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December 18, 2007, 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM

America's dependence on increasingly scarce fossil fuels threatens U.S. security, while also undermining international stability. Brookings hosted Senator Richard G. Lugar (R-Ind.) for a discussion how the next president can combat energy threats to U.S. national security.

Detention Retention: Are Guantanamo Detainees All Innocent?

Fri, 07 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Detainees held for nearly six years at the Guantanamo Bay military prison recently received another hearing at the Supreme Court. But neither the justices nor the public should take at face value the insistence that large numbers of innocents populate Guantanamo, writes Benjamin Wittes. The broader debate over Guantanamo has suffered greatly from these overbroad claims of erroneous detentions.

Maintaining Quality in the Force: A Briefing by General George W. Casey, Jr.

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 10:30:00 GMT

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December 04, 2007, 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM

On December 4, the Brookings Institution hosted General George William Casey, Jr., Chief of Staff of the United States Army, for a discussion of the challenges facing the U.S. Army beyond Iraq into the twenty-first century. General Casey offered his vision for maintaining excellence in the Army through recruiting, training and retention during and beyond the service’s longest deployment since the Vietnam War.

Report Finds Iran Halted Nuclear Arms Program in 2003

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Peter Rodman joins NewsHour host Gwen Ifill and former lead weapons inspector in Iraq David Kay to discuss recent U.S. National Intelligence Estimate findings regarding nuclear weapon development and capability in Iran.

Fatah al Islam: How an Ambitious Jihadist Project Went Awry

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Bilal Y. Saab and Magnus Ranstorp examine the rise and evolution of the terrorist group Fatah al Islam in Lebanon. They conclude that Fatah al Islam could not have morphed from a Palestinian Islamist group to a formidable terrorist network without an influx of Arab fighters from Iraq and financial support from al Qaeda in Saudi Arabia.

National Security at Home and Abroad

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 09:00:00 GMT

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November 16, 2007, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (Pacific)

The morning after the Democratic presidential candidates debated at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Brookings and UNLV jointly hosted an Opportunity 08 forum titled, “National Security at Home and Abroad” featuring national foreign policy experts and political analysts.

Modernizing the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In December 2005, the New York Times reported, and President Bush confirmed, that the National Security Agency had been conducting electronic surveillance of international communications, to or from the U.S., without obeying the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. The disclosure ignited a wildfire of political and legal controversy, which continues to generate heat today.

Boosting the Slim Chances for Mideast Breakthrough

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Shibley Telhami examines the probability of successful negotiations at the upcoming Annapolis meeting between United States and Middle East leaders. Telhami writes that unless the U.S. can take a new approach to controlling Hamas and also drastically improve Palestinians' lives, progress will be short-lived.

Waterboarding and Torture

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Controversial interrogation techniques such as waterboarding have become flash points in the debate over the limits of U.S. interrogation policy since the launch of the Iraq war. Fellow Benjamin Wittes discusses waterboarding and its political implications.

Thousands Protest Emergency Rule in Pakistan

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Steve Cohen discusses implications of the current political unrest in Pakistan.

Resolving The Kurdish Dilemma

Fri, 02 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon and Edward Joseph discuss U.S. diplomacy strategy for upcoming meetings with Turkish officials. O'Hanlon and Joseph argue while the Kurdish rebel attacks should be part of the dialouge, the U.S. should look beyond "crisis management" to deal with broader Turkish issues including the managing the PKK, granting the city of Kirkuk a special status, and achieving an oil deal between the Kurdish and Iraqi people.

Progress of the War in Iraq

Fri, 02 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon discusses key statistics and reconstruction efforts regarding the war in Iraq.

Can the War on Terror be Won?

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Phil Gordon discusses U.S. strategies for combating the War on Terrorism. Ultimately, Gordon believes the War on Terror can only be won through a dramatic change in idealogy that embraces mulilaterialism, and promotes political, economic, and educational changes in the Middle East.

The Mukasey Ultimatum

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, a divided Senate Judiciary Committee approved Michael Mukasey as U.S. attorney general despite concerns about his refusal to denounce simulated drowning as torture. Fellow Benjamin Wittes writes that there are several good reasons to let Mukasey dodge that question.

Beyond Corn-Based Ethanol

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon discusses ethanol based fuel "as a way to find domestic, environmentally friendly alternatives to oil."

Iowa Forum on Energy and National Security

Thu, 25 Oct 2007 15:26:23 GMT

At an Opportunity 08 forum in Iowa, Brookings experts William Antholis, David Sandalow, and Michael O'Hanlon joined local scholars to discuss biofuels, energy policy, the environment and national security.

5 Myths About Renditions (and the Movie Version)

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In light of a new Hollywood movie, hearings in Congress and legal cases in numerous Western countries, Daniel Benjamin addresses myths about renditions now largely associated with the war on terrorism.

Rendition to Torture: The Case of Maher Arar

Thu, 18 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Benjamin discusses the implications of rendition and torture in the context of the war on terrorism. He asserts that renditions are an important part of counterterrorism, but that "rendition to torture" ultimately undermines the U.S.'s efforts to fight terrorism.

Delay on U.S.-Indian Nuclear Accord Only a ‘Hiccup’ On Road to Stronger Ties

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Bruce Riedel discusses India's recent decision not to sign a U.S.-India nuclear agreement. Riedel argues this will have negative consequences for India, but ultimately is only a minor roadblock on the way to a stronger U.S.-India relationshp.

Iowa Forum on Energy and National Security

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 19:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 17, 2007, 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

Opportunity 08 and the University of Iowa co-hosted a forum featuring leading policy experts from Washington D.C. and Iowa on biofuels, energy policy, the environment and national security.

Renditions and the Rule of Law

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Byman discusses the U.S.'s rendition process. Byman asserts that renditions are an effective means of fighting terrorism and possibly in obtaining terrorist information, but that the policy must be modified to ensure fair treatment of apprehended individuals and due process of law.