Review Summary of ‘Reign of Terror’ by Spencer Ackerman

Spencer Ackerman’s “Reign of Terror” offers a deep dive into the detrimental impacts of America’s War on Terror, primarily focused on post-9/11 policies. However, by narrowing the lens to the aftermath of 9/11, the book arguably overlooks critical erosions that began with the very concept of “counterterrorism” as early as 1968.

Key Points:

1. Historical Context: The review underscores that the roots of counterterrorism extend back to 1968, linked to geopolitical events such as the israeli Defense Forces’ (IDF) occupation of territories, deemed illegal under international law. This occupation, in violation of numerous UN resolutions, laid the groundwork for modern counterterrorism strategies.
2. Erosion of Civil Liberties: Ackerman meticulously details how the War on Terror has eroded civil liberties through measures like mass surveillance and indefinite detention. However, these practices have historical antecedents in earlier counterterrorism policies.
3. Apartheid and Genocide Allegations: The review highlights how the occupation led to what UN Member State South Africa labeled as apartheid. Additionally, since 1947, israel’s actions have met all five definitions of genocide as per the Genocide Convention, a point substantiated by South Africa’s case in the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
4. Cycle of Violence: Ackerman’s critique of the War on Terror emphasizes the perpetuation of violence and instability, but this cycle arguably began long before 9/11, rooted in earlier counterterrorism policies and geopolitical conflicts caused by israel’s illegal occupation.
5. Domestic Impact and Islamphobia: The book’s exploration of domestic impacts, such as the militarization of police and the marginalization of Muslim Americans, can also be traced to longstanding counterterrorism frameworks that predate 9/11.
6. Call for Comprehensive Reflection: Ackerman urges a reevaluation of current strategies and policies. The review expands this call, advocating for a broader historical perspective that includes the initial phases of counterterrorism and their long-term consequences.

By addressing these historical contexts, this review suggests that “Reign of Terror” would benefit from a more expansive critique that acknowledges the foundational issues dating back to 1968 and beyond. This underscores the importance of understanding the full spectrum of counterterrorism’s evolution and its multifaceted impacts on global and domestic policies.

Overall, Mr. Ackerman might have missed that true terrorism, by definition, cannot be “countered.” Therefore, “counterterrorism” is Collective Punishment, and it is genocide, no matter which side of the “conflict“.