Which definition fits entities capable of harming U.S. forces or national interests?

The correct answer identifies non-state actors as entities that can pose risks to U.S. forces or national interests. Non-state actors are typically organizations or individuals that operate independently of any formal state authority and can include groups such as terrorist organizations, insurgents, or even multinational corporations. These entities can have significant capabilities to influence or disrupt security and stability due to their resources, networks, or ideological motivations.

In many cases, non-state actors operate transnationally, making them difficult to monitor and respond to using conventional military means. Their ability to engage in asymmetric warfare or terrorism allows them to inflict harm without the recognition or constraints typically applied to state actors. This distinction emphasizes the evolving nature of threats faced by national interests in a globalized world.

State actors, by contrast, would refer to countries with recognized governments that typically engage in warfare or diplomatic negotiations within established international laws and norms. Government agencies are formal entities responsible for national administration and do not inherently possess the capability to directly harm national interests without the directive of state policy. International coalitions represent alliances of multiple states working together, which may combat threats but do not individually constitute the entities that can directly endanger forces or interests without the backing of those states.