Israel's Counterterrorism Strategy: Origins to the Present

Israel has been involved in an intractable conflict with the Palestinians and its neighbors since declaring independence in 1948. Boaz Ganor's book provides an authoritative analysis of Israel's approach to counterterrorism, offering a comprehensive insiders account of the decision-making processes, challenges, and dilemmas at the core of counterterror activities. It highlights the dynamic nature of both terrorism and counterterrorism and distills the lessons of Israel's experience into key tenets for other countries facing the challenge of terrorism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 424 pages
Publication date: 13 July 2021
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Since gaining independence in 1948, Israel has been embroiled in an intractable conflict with the Palestinians and its neighbors. While the intensity of violence has fluctuated over the years, the persistent threat of terrorism has remained a constant factor, shaping Israeli security policy in a unique manner. Boaz Ganor, a renowned expert on counterterrorism, offers an authoritative analysis of Israel's approach to combating terrorism throughout its history. Drawing on unparalleled access to Israeli leaders, he provides a comprehensive insiders account of the decision-making processes, challenges, and dilemmas at the core of counterterror activities.

The book spans distinct eras of terrorism, beginning with infiltration attacks from neighboring states immediately after independence and progressing through the formation of organized Palestinian terror organizations up to the present day. Ganor meticulously details the various tactics employed by terrorists and the corresponding countermeasures taken by the Israeli state. He also highlights the dynamic nature of both terrorism and counterterrorism, emphasizing how waves of terror rise, fall, and evolve, as do the measures employed to respond to them.

Ganor distills the lessons learned from Israel's experience into key tenets for other countries facing the challenge of terrorism. The book features revelatory personal testimony from senior Israeli decision-makers who have played pivotal roles in counterterrorism strategy, including prime ministers, defense ministers, Israeli Defense Forces chiefs of staff, and directors of Mossad and Shin Bet.

Israel's Counterterrorism Strategy is an indispensable resource for students, scholars, and practitioners alike. It provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of Israel's counterterrorism efforts, offering valuable insights into the challenges and strategies employed to combat terrorism in a global context.

Weight: 586g
Dimension: 154 x 228 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231199230