Violence in Mexico: When Cartels and Terrorists Converge

 James H. McGee discusses the evolving threats posed by narcoterrorism, particularly in Mexico, and how these threats could extend to the United States. He reflects on historical encounters with political violence and highlights the interconnections between drug cartels and terrorist organizations.

1. Personal Reflection: McGee recalls his experience in Bogota in 1988 while protecting an American billionaire. He observed the presence of armed men associated with the Palestine Liberation Organization, hinting at the international nature of terrorism.

2. Narcoterrorism: There is a growing overlap between drug cartels and terrorist organizations. Both groups share interests and sometimes collaborate, blurring the lines between political terrorism and commercial criminal activities.

3. Global Connections: McGee notes that various countries, including Cuba and Venezuela, have supported networks combining narcotics trafficking and political terrorism. He mentions how groups like ISIS and Taliban have engaged in drug trafficking to fund their operations.

4. Local Impacts: The situation in Mexico, including the power of drug cartels, has implications for the U. S. McGee warns that foreign terrorist groups may exploit vulnerabilities in U. S. cities, aligning their actions with narcoterrorists against shared adversaries.

5. U. S. Vulnerabilities: The rising influence of groups like Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua and MS-13, both of which exert control over neighborhoods and engage in drug trafficking, raises concerns about the safety of American communities. McGee emphasizes the possibility of these groups forming alliances with foreign state actors, such as Iran.

6. Historical Context: The text references historical tensions, highlighting the vulnerability of Mexico and how its issues can affect the U. S. “Poor Mexico — so far from God, so close to the United States,” reflects the complex relationship between the two nations.

7. Future Threats: McGee suggests that current challenges, including political and criminal violence, may lead to attacks on American soil orchestrated by either narcoterrorists or state-supported actors. He emphasizes that the situation in Mexico should remind Americans of their own proximity to potential violence.

The interplay between narcoterrorism and traditional terrorism creates a complex and dangerous landscape. McGee stresses the importance of recognizing these threats and preparing for the possibility that violence in Mexico could spill over into the United States. The message is clear: vigilance and proactive measures are essential for addressing the growing interconnectedness of these violent forces. 

https://spectator.org/violence-in-mexico-when-cartels-and-terrorists-converge/