September 27, 2006

What does the NEI report actually say about the war in Iraq, and terrorism? Well you can read it yourself here.  Basically it does NOT actually say that “Spy Agencies Say Iraq War Worsens Terrorism Threat.”  the way the New York Times story claims. It does say that "United States-led counterterrorism efforts have seriously damaged the leadership of al-Qa'ida and disrupted its operations."  and that "Should jihadists leaving Iraq perceive themselves, and be perceived, to have failed, we judge fewer fighters will be inspired to carry on the fight … If democratic reform efforts in Muslim majority nations progress over the next five years, political participation probably would drive a wedge between intransigent extremists and groups willing to use the political process to achieve their local objectives." Of course the opposite is also true: "perceived jihadist success [in Iraq] would inspire more fighters to continue the struggle elsewhere." SO, the conclusion that if terrorists win in Iraq, then THAT will worsen the terrorism threat seems to make sense.  However that is NOT what the New York Times said. 6:29:33 AM