The author -- an expert on national and international antiterrorism -- reviews the shortcomings and progress of various antiterrorist operations in various countries. The book examines political assassination from the perspective of the terrorist, antiterrorist, and Judeo-Christian ethic; the activities of "hit teams," particularly those squads sponsored by Iran and Libya; and Cuba's involvement in the narcotics trade and terrorism. Also discussed is the United States' inability -- primarily through its armed forces and intelligence agencies -- to cope with State-sponsored terrorism in the Middle East and elsewhere. The discussion details efforts to redress this problem during the Reagan administration, particularly the upgrading of intelligence operations and steps to protect its foreign embassy network. Additionally, the book critically examines British antiterrorist initiatives in Northern Ireland and similar efforts by the governments of France, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka to control terrorism in the Pacific Basin and Indian Ocean regions. Chapter notes, 44-item selected bibliography, subject index.