We all felt the ripples from terrorism across the U.K after the fateful attack on the World Trade Centre on 9/11. But nobody could predict that London would be the next target for terror. With 9/11 happening on a different continent, people still grieved for America's loss, but felt a slight comfort knowing that it was so far away. But with the latest attack (now dubbed 7/7) occurring on our doorstep, cities all over the country are in panic, including Cardiff.
It is clear that the terrorists' intent is to kill large numbers of innocent people.
With London so secure now, could Cardiff be the next prey for these no-mercy predators? So what's the cause for concern?
Recent attacks all over the world, e.g. Bali, proves terrorism is not contained to one place - anywhere is a potential target.
The sheer number of people that died in 9/11 proves the terrorists can kill large numbers of innocent people, using new methods of attack.
The 2012 Olympics is a prime target for terrorism. Even though security will be tight, it will still be extremely hard to stop someone whose intent is to kill.
The 7 / 7 merciless attack on London is much closer to home and a reason for many to panic.There are many things that the English and Welsh governments can do to contain terrorism in our country. But if a person is intent on taking lives and are willing to sacrifice their own life in the process, can we really stop these terrorist atrocities?
We are bombarded by the media with stories about terrorism. Many of them about terrorists being arrested in the UK, which is a relief to many who want to feel safe in their own homes and towns. But with the recent case of Charles de Menezes, the Brazilian man shot down by the police, does this show a desperation of the authorities within the U.K? To shoot down an innocent person is no better than what the terrorists do themselves.
Terrorism is a hard-hitting, serious subject for today's society. Whether you're the sort of person who doesn't watch the news or read the newspapers, or simply don't care, terrorism is a part of our lives whether we like it or not and there is no hiding from it.
Ryan
your comments
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Richard Cook, Gosport
We all know that terroism can happen anywhere at any time. we cannot live around terrorism, we have to get on with life and do our normal day duties. I have been on the London Transport since 7/7. To me, it is part of getting back on the Tube, knowing that London is safe. Teroorists could target anywhere, not just a Transport system (in London's case). They could turn up to a Theme Park, theatre, anywhere. Good article.
Wed Jul 19 08:43:50 2006
Saqib from Cardiff
Hi Ryan... It's difficult to predict where terrorists could strike next, the number of potential targets is infinate. Cardiff is the fastest growing capital in the whole of Europe and could be seen as an ideal target for terrorists and effects would be dire if such an attack would take place!
Thu May 4 09:06:46 2006
Sarah
In order to understand a terrorist you have to be a terrorist. We can only assume what will happen next or discuss statistics. It's very difficult to understand motives and to get real reasons for attacks. What you have said Ryan is very well written and I admire that but nobody can be certain who or what's next in this war of terrorism - and I've no doubt we'll always be kept in the dark until it's too late.
Fri Mar 10 13:26:35 2006
Anja Conti
Hey Ryan... seeing that no-body has written a comment.. i think people in general are pretty scared of this taboo topic(and too right) Its pretty scarey to think about it. I'm so glad someone has had the guts to talk about it, i know i wouldn't. Excellent article! xxx
Thu Nov 24 18:58:08 2005
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