Insights from a Counterterrorism Career

Christy Abizade shares her extensive experience in the intelligence community, beginning as an analyst in the Defense Intelligence Agency after 9/11. She discusses her formative role in analyzing the relationship between Saddam Hussein’s regime and Al-Qaeda, highlighting the intense pressure from policymakers for new insights despite limited credible evidence. This experience ingrained in her the importance of integrity and objectivity in intelligence analysis, demonstrating the need for analysts to remain true to their findings amid external pressures. Her transition from analyst to policymaker allowed her to leverage this foundational understanding, ultimately enhancing her effectiveness in decision-making roles.