Grand Strategy versus Unending Extremism

Abstract

This article focuses on the lessons learned from American and coalition experience in dealing with extremist groups such as al-Qaeda and the so-called Islamic State or ISIL. It also deals more generally with extremist networks, which increasingly have the capacity to function as nonstate actors, not only threatening the existence of a growing number of fragile states but increasingly acting as proto-states themselves. I raise issues that should be considered as the United States and its allies and partners gird themselves for the long-term struggle against violent extremism. I also address the challenges faced after long years of war, the general considerations in forming a coalition, the means for establishing and implementing a strategy, and thoughts on a way ahead in a negatively trending security environment. I focus on what needs to be done and avoid specifically praising or condemning successes and failures of the past.