The war on terror, I believe, will be waged by effective intelligence and police work and cruise missiles.

Michael Mandelbaum’s quote outlines his belief that the war on terror will not be won through traditional military action alone, but through a combination of intelligence, police work, and cruise missiles. By highlighting these specific tools, Mandelbaum emphasizes that modern warfare—especially in the context of terrorism—requires a more nuanced approach. Intelligence plays a crucial role in identifying threats before they escalate, while police work is vital for handling domestic and international security at the ground level. The use of cruise missiles represents a more targeted and technological approach to military action, focused on precision rather than large-scale warfare.

In this view, the war on terror is seen as a multifaceted conflict that extends beyond traditional battlefields and involves a combination of covert operations, surveillance, and preemptive strikes. Intelligence gathering is essential for understanding the networks and motivations behind terrorist groups, while police work ensures that those responsible can be captured or neutralized in a way that adheres to legal and ethical standards. The integration of military technology, like cruise missiles, allows for precise action against terrorist infrastructure or key figures without the broad devastation of conventional warfare.

Mandelbaum’s perspective suggests that the fight against terrorism requires coordination and a strategic approach that blends multiple disciplines. It highlights the evolving nature of modern conflicts, where terrorism often operates in decentralized, global networks that are not easily addressed through traditional military tactics. The role of international cooperation between intelligence agencies and law enforcement becomes key in preventing attacks and dismantling terrorist organizations.

Ultimately, Mandelbaum's quote underscores the complexity of counterterrorism efforts in the 21st century, where technology, intelligence, and law enforcement work in tandem to confront a global and evolving threat. This approach represents a shift from conventional warfare to a more precise and strategic method of combating modern security challenges.