SpyTalk
Afghanistan Relations; Domestic Terrorism
Jun 2, 2022
Former President of the FBI Agents Association, Tom O'Connor, discusses the need for a domestic terrorism law in the United States. Political scientist at Rand, Andrew Radin, talks about options for future relations with Afghanistan, addressing the challenges faced by the country and the policy options for the United States.
51:15
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Quick takeaways
- Engagement is the most productive approach for the US to take towards the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, using diplomacy, humanitarian assistance, and development aid to encourage positive action.
- Domestic terrorism is a growing threat in the US, requiring the implementation of federal legislation to address the increasing violence by right-wing militia, neo-Nazi, and racist groups.
Deep dives
The Importance of Engagement in Afghanistan
The RAND Corporation released a report suggesting that engagement is the most productive approach for the US to take towards the Taliban regime in Afghanistan. Engagement would involve using inducements and tools such as diplomacy, humanitarian assistance, and development aid to encourage the Taliban to move in a positive direction. While engagement carries risks, it is the only strategy that has a plausible chance to achieve US policy interests in Afghanistan, including preventing the country from becoming a safe haven for terrorism and addressing the humanitarian crisis.
