In all our efforts, we aim to draw a stark contrast between what we stand for and the heinous deeds of
terrorists. We reject the lie that America and its allies are at war with Islam. We will continue to act lawfully.
Outside of areas of active hostilities, we endeavor to detain, interrogate, and prosecute terrorists through
law enforcement. However, when there is a continuing, imminent threat, and when capture or other
actions to disrupt the threat are not feasible, we will not hesitate to take decisive action. We will always
do so legally, discriminately, proportionally, and bound by strict accountability and strong oversight. The
United States—not our adversaries—will define the nature and scope of this struggle, lest it define us.