text: Foundations of Insurgency
  2-98. Although violence can alienate the population when not linked to a vision of a better life or the
  violence is indiscriminant, the commitment to use violence is a potent insurgent weapon. Targets
  of violence can be anything insurgents deem to be obstructions to their cause. Host nation security forces,
  foreign forces, aid workers, members of the population who do not accept insurgent claims,
  and infrastructure are typical insurgent targets.
  2-99. Normally, organized groups of insurgents using terrorism or guerrilla warfare use violent tactics.
  The differences between these two can become blurred, especially within an urban environment or where
  the government exerts strong control. Although potentially nonviolent, criminal activity provides a ready
  source of income for an insurgency and, for the purposes of this FM, has a violent nature. Violent tactics
  include, but are not limited to (for more see FM 3-24):
  • Ambushes.
  • Assassination.
  • Arson.
  • Bombing and high explosives.
  • Chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear weapons.
  • Hijacking and skyjacking.
  • Hostage taking.
  • Indirect fire.
  • Kidnapping.
  • Raids or attacks on facilities.
  • Sabotage.
  • Seizure.
  TERRORISM
  2-100. A terrorist is an individual who uses violence, terror, and intimidation to achieve a result (DOD).
  Insurgents may use terrorism. Terrorist attacks employ violence primarily against noncombatants as a way
  to increase the population's vulnerability and decrease their perception of security. Insurgent terrorism
  techniques include assassination, arson, blackmail, bombings, hijacking, kidnapping, threats, murder,
  mutilation, and torture. The insurgent using terrorism often targets economic and political symbols
  to undermine the legitimacy of the government. Any overreaction by government forces or other
  authorities adds to the population's resentment toward the government and turns its support to the
  insurgency.
  2-101. Insurgents using terrorism generally require fewer personnel than guerrilla warfare
  or conventional operations. Inherently, these activities have greater security and lower support
  requirements. Insurgents using terrorism often select targets for their political and psychological impact.
  Their attacks can be effective in generating popular support within one faction when used against a
  competing faction. They can also be effective in forcing government reaction that alters government
  policies to benefit insurgent objectives.
  GUERRILLA TACTICS
  2-102. Guerrilla tactics are typified by hit-and-run attacks by lightly armed, small groups. The guerrilla is
  the combat element of the insurgency. Guerrilla tactics emphasize ambushes, raids, snipers, rocket
  and mortar attacks, and the use of explosive devices. Guerrilla tactics may also include assassination,
  coercion, and kidnapping to achieve support or eliminate opposition.
  Principles
  2-103. The principles of guerrilla tactics as stated by Mao Zedong are still valid: “Enemy advances, we
  retreat. Enemy halts, we harass. Enemy tires, we attack. Enemy retreats, we pursue.”