'This is how we win': US counterterrorism chief on Iran, Hamas and Trump’s 'will to act'

Dr. Sebastian Gorka, the US counterterrorism chief, discusses President Donald Trump's approach to fighting terrorism in an interview with The Jerusalem Post. Gorka illustrates Trump's method by sharing a story from the beginning of his administration, where a senior official presented a "place mat" - a large one-sheet diagram highlighting key information about an ISIS leader - to the president in the Oval Office. The president, visibly engaged, immediately demanded that the leader be killed.

Gorka emphasizes that the common denominator in combating terrorism, including ISIS, the Muslim Brotherhood, and Iran, is ideology, intelligence, and political will. He believes that understanding Trump's intentions does not require classified information, as his objectives can be inferred from his public statements.

Regarding Iran, Gorka maintains that the administration's goals align with Trump's original demands, which focused on nuclear weapons, funding proxies, and regional destabilization efforts. He stresses that the decision regarding Iran lies with the Iranian leadership.

Gorka advises Israelis not to underestimate Trump, using Greenland as an example of what can be achieved when he demonstrates political will. He encourages people to observe his actions and achievements rather than speculating about potential compromises.

In addition to combating terrorism, Gorka is involved in efforts to prevent Iranian operations within the United States. He recalls receiving similar advice during his first months in office, which emphasized the importance of demonstrating political will.

For Gorka, the Muslim Brotherhood represents a significant ideological challenge, as it is the intellectual and ideological source for numerous modern jihadist groups. He credits his personal experiences, including his father's imprisonment and torture during the Hungarian Revolution, for shaping his understanding of fascism and totalitarian ideologies. Gorka argues that designating the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization is a crucial step in countering the threat they pose.