US Expands Counter-Terrorism Strategy to Cartels and Extremists

The Trump administration has unveiled a new national counter-terrorism strategy that its authors say significantly broadens the scope of its predecessor. The document addresses not only traditional threats such as jihadist groups like al-Qaeda, but also cartels in the Western Hemisphere, which Washington regards as a source of violence and illicit trade.

According to White House adviser Sebastian Gorka, the priority should be to "neutralize" these groups before their activities reach US territory. The strategy also envisages greater cooperation with foreign partners, particularly with regard to Iran and security in the Strait of Hormuz.

A further element of the document is the targeting of domestic groups that the administration describes as violent and anti-American, including certain left-wing and right-wing movements. The aim is to identify them and restrict their activities through legal instruments.

(reuters, max)