Iraq’s Long-Term Impact on Jihadist Terrorism

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.