War on Terror Terms

Combatants

Individuals engaged in armed conflict who directly participate in hostilities, such as soldiers, guerrilla fighters, and members of organized armed groups. They are subject to the laws of war and can be targeted for attack.

Civilian

A person who is not a member of the military or police force, and is not involved in any armed conflict or law enforcement activities.

Suicide Bomber

Individual who carries out a violent act, often targeting civilians, by detonating explosives strapped to their body. They do so with the intention of causing mass casualties and instilling fear for political, ideological, or religious reasons.

Coalition

An alliance or partnership formed by multiple individuals or groups with a common goal or purpose.

Perpetrators

Individuals who commit illegal or harmful acts, causing harm to others or society. They are responsible for initiating and carrying out criminal or unethical actions, often with intent or motive. Perpetrators can range from petty criminals to organized crime members or even individuals involved in acts of terrorism.

Embassy

A diplomatic office of one country located in another country, serving as a hub for communication and representation between the two nations. Embassies facilitate diplomatic relations, promote cultural exchanges, and provide consular services to citizens. They are typically headed by an ambassador who represents their country's interests and acts as a liaison with the host country.

Hi-jacked.

unlawfully seize (an aircraft, ship, or vehicle) in transit and force it to go to a different destination or use it for one's own purposes.

Caliphate

the rule or reign of a caliph or chief Muslim ruler.

“Islamic Fundamentalism”

expression of Islam that stresses strict and literal adherence to a set of basic principles

Jihad

A holy war for Muslims

“Axis of Evil”

(Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy, and Imperial Japan) and the Cold War era “Evil Empire” (the Soviet Union as described by Ronald Reagan). In 2023, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell described Iran, China, and Russia as the new axis of evil.

Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD’s)

a chemical, biological or radioactive weapon capable of causing widespread death and destruction.