Gabbard's views on Islamic terrorism distinguish her from mainstream Democrats. In 2016, she spoke out against Islamism, "a radical political ideology of violent jihad" shared by ISIS and Al-Qaeda "aimed at establishing a totalitarian society governed by … a particular interpretation of Islam.”[1] Gabbard has said she is mindful that most Muslims are not extremist, but criticized the Obama administration for refusing to say that "Islamic extremists" are waging a war against the United States.[2][3][4]
Gabbard has said "When it comes to the war against terrorists, I'm a hawk", but "when it comes to counterproductive wars of regime change, I'm a dove,"[5] and has spoken in favor of a "very limited use of drones" in situations where the "military is not able to get in without creating an unacceptable level of risk."[6][7]