Homeland Security

Definitions for international and domestic terrorism

The unlawful use of force or violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a Government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives.

The unlawful use of violence or threat of violence, often motivated by religious, political, or other ideological beliefs, to instill fear and coerce individuals, governments or societies in pursuit of terrorist goals.. See also antiterrorism; combating terrorism; counterterrorism; force protection condition. (JP 3-26)