Terror Response Requires Adaptability

• By Rep. Jim Saxton
• Special to Roll Call
• June 4, 2004, 1:27 p.m.

In a world full of uncertainty, one variable remains constant: change. Similar to the adapting species of Darwin’s evolutionary environments, we can be sure that change is always around the corner and our ability to adapt, and most importantly keep ahead of coming changes in the war on terror, will once again be tested. From a Western point of view, our response to terrorism has been predictable. We went on the offensive, striking militarily and largely dismantling Al Qaeda bases and training facilities in Afghanistan. We fostered alliances with Pakistan and other “moderate” Arab states, built an international coalition of 31 countries, widened our search for terrorist support groups — such as Saddam Hussein’s Baathist party — and made gallant attempts to further involve the United Nations in the war on terror.