Finding A National Approach to Combat the Terror-Crime Nexus: A Hezbollah & Transnational Organized Crime Case Study

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 Al Qaeda and its affiliates. Hezbollah, meanwhile, has developed into a highly capable and multi-faceted organization that has demonstrated a robust military capability, a strong ability to use and manipulate information, while gaining an air oflegitimacy, specifically as a voice in the Lebanese legislature. Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) organizations have also gained U.S. attention, largely due to the trafficking of drugs and humans into the United States. The United States should develop an approach that recognizes the growing relationship between Hezbollah and TOCs, and the threet that it represents. 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 order effects with recognition of how actions influence root causes.