What is the operational intent of terrorism?

The operational intent of terrorism centers on instilling fear and panic in a targeted audience, which is achieved through violence or the threat of violence. This method is designed to communicate a message, often seeking to achieve political or ideological objectives. The emphasis on psychological impact highlights how terrorism leverages fear as a tool to influence public perception, sway governments, or provoke responses that align with the perpetrators' goals.

While peaceful negotiations and economic strategies may play roles in broader conflict contexts, they do not embody the core intent of terrorism as distinctly characterized by the use of violence or threats. Similarly, political campaigns typically involve more structured, systematic efforts to effect change without the necessity of coercion through terror. Thus, the highlighted operational intent accurately encapsulates the critical aspect of terrorism and its psychological warfare nature.