Chemical Terrorism: The Threat of Al-Qaeda and Al-Qaeda Inspired Individuals

Author

Erin Anne McClelland

Date of Graduation

Spring 2008

Degree

Master of Science in Defense and Strategic Studies

Department

Defense and Strategic Studies

Committee Chair

Bradley Thayer

Abstract

Chemical weapons have been in use for generations but as states look to phase out use of these weapons, non-state actors are looking to pick them up. In the past decade, Al-Qaeda has become a primary security concern for the United States, and Al-Qaeda and Al-Qaeda inspired terrorism threatens not only our lives, but our way of life as this fanatical group wishes to impose its will and its way. The availability and relative simplicity of chemical weapons combined with Al-Qaeda's resources and intent is a dangerous combination. Preventing as well as properly managing an act of chemical terrorism needs to be a key security policy objective of the United States.

Keywords

chemical weapons, terrorism, Al-Qaeda, industrial chemicals, domestic terrorism

Subject Categories

Defense and Security Studies

Copyright

© Erin Anne McClelland

Recommended Citation

McClelland, Erin Anne, "Chemical Terrorism: The Threat of Al-Qaeda and Al-Qaeda Inspired Individuals" (2008). MSU Graduate Theses. 1433.
https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/1433