The Security Challenge of Terror

In the aftermath of a terrorist attack like the one in Brussels this week, we naturally focus on the loss of life and the people seriously injured. But the damage is far more pervasive. Everyone in those communities—and beyond—are affected.  Fear and uncertainty become the norm, at least in the near term.  Our daily lives are impacted.  Businesses, schools, and government are all disrupted. A trip on a subway or a ride to the airport takes on new meaning.  Our way of life is challenged.  And inevitably a sense of helplessness, frustration, and anger develops over why we are not safe, why our governments can’t do more to protect us.

A former senior British intelligence official, who asked not to be identified, told The Cipher Brief that the challenge for security officials is how to adapt to the changing threats and gain control of the situation.  “What is damaging is when a feeling develops that a violent terrorist threat is not under control, and therefore, can occur at any time and take [a country or populace] by surprise,” the British official said.