Can terrorists operate like true guerrillas?
Q. Dear Bevin: We discussed why you think terrorists are not able to be as successful as guerrillas; but what happens when they collaborate with guerrillas? Are they then able to “swim like fish in a pond”? In other words do the guerrillas provide the terrorists with the ability to blend in among the masses? Lastly, in light of your distinction between the two groups, why would guerrillas partner with terrorists if the aims of the terrorist are “irrational” or “unobtainable”? Cedric Muhammad. A. Dear Cedric: The question, first, of whether terrorists can swim with guerrillas inside the water of the people. Answer, only if and so long as they reflect the goals of the guerrillas themselves. But in Iraq there is a substantial union of purpose between the al Qaeda terrorists and the guerrillas. The guerrillas are trying to prevent a stable successor government being established in Iraq. The terrorists want to harm Americans in any way they can. Thus the two have a common purpose. The guerr
