The article compares the global response to COVID-19 to a hypothetical scenario where a terrorist attack caused a similar number of deaths, suggesting that the current efforts are insufficient. It criticizes the lack of a coordinated international response and the failure of policymakers to prioritize the pandemic as a security and policy imperative. The author calls for the U.S. to lead in making the pandemic the top international priority, to produce a global battle plan with clear accountability, and to ensure financing is not a constraint. The article also emphasizes the need to fix the system for future pandemics, citing the G20-sponsored panel's recommendation for additional funding. The conclusion reiterates that no one is safe until everyone is safe and urges a war footing to end the pandemic.