The New Age of Terror

A new age of terror begins in the aftermath of 9/11; fear becomes a weapon as America and its allies face a new brand of enemy in an unconventional conflict that demands an evolution of warfare as we know it. The American people adjust to a new normal of heightened security at home to prevent another attack. Abroad, the conflict that begins in Afghanistan spreads to Iraq and ultimately morphs into a global battle, as coalition efforts to eliminate the scourge of terror unintentionally give rise to ISIS. As the Islamic state becomes increasingly difficult to contain using traditional military tactics, its dark message spreads around the world through social media, gathering recruits and inspiring the first lone wolf terror attacks in Paris and Brussels.

The war on terror enters a new phase as homegrown lone wolves begin to strike in the U.S. The American military apparatus struggles to contain a threat that has moved to a new battlefield: the internet, where ISIS and other terror groups enlist and inspire individuals to commit acts of terror anywhere they can, posting instructions and even hit lists. Tragedies in Boston, San Bernardino and Orlando are stark reminders that despite all the increases in security, the threat lingers. New and unexpected allies join the counter offensive, including hackers and U.S businesses. But a climate of fear gives rise to more hate, and a new wave of domestic terror emerges, led by white nationalists. An inside look at counter-terror efforts from cyberspace to the ongoing military operation to retake Mosul and defeat ISIS.