The War of Ideas needs "Wartime" Emphasis--As Demonstrated by Mumbai

As a new administration takes shape in the United States, it is important that the War of Ideas feature prominently in policy efforts moving forward. The attack in Mumbai, involving hijacked ships, sea born infiltration, the early execution of the local terrorism chief and multiple, simultaneous attacks on soft targets, represents something of a revolution in terrorist tactics--well planned, rapid execution based on solid intelligence. To carry out this type of attack the planners would have needed to engage in significant pre-operational planning activities. That none of this came to the attention of the Indian government or global intelligence apparatus in time to allow disruption is cause for concern. The attackers needed local assistance, local intelligence networks, and would have relied on logistical support locally and wherever they came from. That in all of this no one appears to have come forward to tip off the authorities show that we still have a long way to go in the War of Ideas. There are still many places where the local populations will turn a blind eye and provide tacit support to these extremist movements. Until these populations are willing to make a stand against terror by informing authorities, we will not win the War of Ideas. We have our work cut out for us.