The cowardly attack against the French tourists in Saudi Arabia came at a time when we all thought that the terrorism threat had been contained. Monday's attack is, however, proof that terrorism is alive and well. The fact is, it was comforting not to think about it. Yet it is there and looking for an opportunity to hit not only foreigners but also the national interests and disrupt the development process.
The region has never been so tense. Ethnic and sectarian divisions threaten to spark civil strife in more than one country. It is the ideal atmosphere to promote hate and extremism. And the policies of the United States and other Western powers don't really help. The continuing carnage in Iraq, besieging the Palestinian people and the blatant pro-Israeli policies and the disrespect for Muslim religious beliefs and sensitivities in the West are being translated into terrorism on the ground by extremists.
It has been said many times before, by the region's highest ranking officials, that the fight against terrorism cannot be addressed by security measures alone. Terrorism, these days, finds many volunteers. Key international players must reconsider the remedy before matters worsen.
