What is a primary objective of terrorists when carrying out acts of violence?

The primary objective of terrorists when carrying out acts of violence is to generate fear among the populace. This tactic seeks to instill a sense of insecurity and anxiety in the target population, which can lead to heightened emotional responses and societal disruption. By creating fear, terrorists aim to achieve their goals, whether those are political, ideological, or social change.

Terrorism often relies on the element of surprise and the dramatic nature of violent acts to capture public attention and create a narrative around their motivations. This fear can compel governments and societies to respond in ways that may ultimately align with the terrorists’ objectives, including influencing policy changes. While spreading awareness of their ideology or seeking financial gain may accompany their actions, the underlying intent focuses on fear as a means to a more profound end. Promoting international peace stands contrary to the characteristics of terrorism, which fundamentally disrupts peace and security.