The war on terror has long been waged. Strategies put forward ranged from “shock-and-awe” bombing attacks, knocking down vital infrastructures and sources of livelihood, bringing in the marines and war machines to countries suspected of harboring terrorists, and urban street-to-street fighting, while at the same time exerting efforts to win the hearts and support of the people in that country. And yes, there is also the inevitable freezing of assets, counting of body bags, propaganda war, and others. But there seems to be no let-up in suicide bombings and terror attacks. Would the side with the highest number of body bags win the ‘game’? Calm never came.
There have been forums, debates and discussions to look into the role of “radicalization” of would be suicide bombers and terrorists. Questions such as what causes radicalization of young muslims, who and where do these youngsters get their teachings, and who are the youngsters (and oldies as well) most prone to radicalization were put forward. The answers to these were far from clear. The irony is that, some of these “radicalized” youths have, in most instances, stepped in western soils, either as professionals, students, or just posing as tourists.
So where do we go from here? Are we gaining grounds in our efforts to be on top of the situation? Would wrestling the championship belt from the current holder be that fascinating? Huhmn. Tell me.
