Transnational Threats Project
The Transnational Threats (TNT) Project focuses on the threat and evolution of terrorist networks and the irregular activities of countries like Russia, Iran, and China
Led by Dr. Seth G. Jones, director and Harold Brown Chair, TNT examines the activities of organizations like the Islamic State, al Qaeda, Lebanese Hezbollah, Shia militias, and far-right and far-left extremist networks—including counterterrorism efforts. TNT also analyzes Russian, Iranian, and Chinese irregular warfare activities, such as covert action, economic warfare, support to non-state partners, cyber operations, disinformation, political warfare, and espionage.
TNT conducts extensive fieldwork overseas, compiles and analyzes data sets, and utilizes satellite imagery and other types of qualitative and quantitative analysis. TNT also draws from an extensive network of policy experts from the U.S. and partner governments, Congress, academia, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector. In partnership with CSIS’s Andreas C. Dracopoulos iDeas Lab, TNT translates its research into high-quality videos, podcasts, reports, visualizations, and other products designed to engage audiences and inform policy discussions through objective analysis. TNT’s work is highly valued by government officials, corporate executives, and other influential leaders seeking to understand, prevent, and counter transnational threats.
Contact Information
- Riley McCabe
- Program Manager and Research Associate, Transnational Threats Project
- rmccabe@csis.org
Media Queries
- H. Andrew Schwartz
- Chief Communications Officer
- 202.775.3242
- aschwartz@csis.org
- Paige Montfort
- Assistant Director of Communications, External Relations
- 202.775.3173
- pmontfort@csis.org
Latest Analysis

Photo: MAHMUD HAMS/AFP via Getty Images
Why Hamas Attacked When It Did
The October 7 Hamas attacks proved devastating for both Israel and ordinary Palestinians. Why did Hamas decide to attack Israel when it did?
Commentary by Daniel Byman and Mackenzie Holtz — December 6, 2023

Hamas’ October 7 Attack: The Tactics, Targets, and Strategy of Terrorists
Transcript — November 7, 2023

Experts React: Assessing the Israeli Intelligence and Potential Policy Failure
Commentary by Jessica Davis Tricia Bacon Emily Harding and Daniel Byman — October 25, 2023

Seizing the Initiative in Ukraine: Waging War in a Defense Dominant World
Brief by Seth G. Jones Riley McCabe and Alexander Palmer — October 12, 2023

What’s Next for Hamas and Israel?
Critical Questions by Alexander Palmer and Daniel Byman — October 10, 2023