13. Covert Operations

Covert operations have become an integral factor for Jihādi intelligence. A governmental covert operation could be defined as one that takes place in plain sight, but where policymakers enjoy the advantage of plausible deniability. Such operations can be political, psychological, economic or (para-)military in nature and are inherently secretive. They follow the rationale of intervening in a clandestine way and actively changing an existing situation with oftentimes limited means. Therefore, covert operations are usually conducted instead of overt military operations. They are highly relevant for Jihādi intelligence may also include covert activities in the field of propaganda, economic warfare or subversion, which in turn may involve espionage, counter-espionage and deception.