A host of factors need to be considered to assess and measure the success of transnational terrorist organizations, including intent, ability to mobilize, operational environment, and organizational capability.
According to the most recent report by the UN Monitoring Team, al-Qaeda’s “appetite for external operations had increased,” and some battle-hardened militants operating in Syria, particularly those from Central Asia, “retained external ambitions.”. Many counterterrorism analysts would likely suggest that the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) remains the most dangerous terrorist group operating today, demonstrating both the intent and capabilities to conduct external operations (EXOPS). In a world of finite resources, with the U.S. and its allies focused on the war in Ukraine, the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and myriad other foreign policy priorities, maintaining focus on counterterrorism sometimes falls off the list of top-ranked priorities.
What Determines Whether a Terrorist Group is Considered Successful? – The Soufan Center
