The document discusses Australia's approach to counterterrorism, arguing that both tough security measures and softer community engagement strategies are needed. It notes that existing legislation covers many security needs, but that preventing radicalization requires working with communities and addressing social factors. The key challenge is implementing grassroots programs to identify and support at-risk individuals, as these "soft measures" will be most effective against threats of extremism and recruitment.
Man Haron Monis' violent siege in Sydney raises questions about how a person with his criminal history was released on bail and able to carry out the attack. While his actions were driven by delusion and narcissism, they still meet the definition of terrorism. The Islamic State has actively encouraged "lone wolf" attacks in Western countries by troubled, alienated individuals. They view damaged people as weapons to enact violence without being formally connected or following orders. This poses challenges for detection without established patterns of terrorist planning and networks. Increased community engagement and intelligence sharing between security agencies will be important to address the threat of future lone wolf attacks.
The document discusses proposed revisions to Australia's counterterrorism laws announced on Tuesday. While new laws are needed to address the evolving threat of foreign fighters returning home and homegrown terrorists, laws alone are not enough. Community engagement is also vital to opposing extremism and protecting vulnerable individuals. The threat environment has changed with many more Australians fighting with extremist groups in Syria and Iraq compared to previous conflicts in Afghanistan, and these foreign fighters may return home to carry out terrorist acts. However, any legal changes still require careful consultation to avoid eroding community trust and goodwill, which are important elements of security.
This document discusses the growing threat of ISIS and how it has become directly connected to threats in Australia. It notes that ISIS has been urging supporters around the world to attack enemies wherever they are through its online magazines. Australian intelligence agencies have intercepted communications showing the connection between foreign fighters traveling to Syria and Iraq and homegrown extremism in Australia. The raising of the terror threat level and recent counter-terrorism raids in Australia reflect this increased threat from both foreign fighters and lone actors being inspired by groups like ISIS. To address the threat, the document argues that military and police responses alone are not enough and that a broader community effort is needed.
The document discusses the rise of ISIS in Iraq and Syria and argues that defeating ISIS requires more than just military force. It will require the Iraqi government, led by Nouri al-Maliki, to build consensus with Kurds and Sunnis to undermine the social support ISIS currently has. While military efforts are important, the key to rolling back ISIS's gains will be addressing the political issues that have disaffected Sunni communities and strengthened ISIS.
The document discusses how Muslim communities can help fight extremism in Australia. It notes that Islamic State is targeting and recruiting Australian youth. While security agencies and police play a key role, prevention is better than cure. Countering violent extremism programs in other countries work with former extremists and communities to rehabilitate and reintegrate those who have been radicalized. Such community-based counter-terrorism efforts are essential for Australia to develop a holistic approach and turn the tide against extremist recruitment.
The document discusses the Sydney cafe hostage crisis and the threat of lone wolf terrorism. It argues that while terrorism is an unlikely threat compared to other dangers, lone wolf attacks carried out by damaged individuals in the name of Islamic State are a growing threat. Lone wolf terrorists like Man Haron Monis, the hostage taker, are appealing to Islamic State because even pathetic actors can achieve notoriety through highly publicized attacks. The threat of copycat lone wolf sieges and hostage situations is increasing.
The document discusses Europe's response to the Charlie Hebdo attacks in Paris. It summarizes the views of some who argue radical Islam is embedded in Islam itself, while others say the terrorists do not represent Islam. It profiles the attackers and notes they followed a pattern of becoming radicalized in prison then carrying out attacks after training abroad. While the threat is real, most Muslims do not support terrorism. There is no simple response, but attitudes and actions will shape future developments.
The document discusses Australia's approach to counterterrorism, arguing that both tough security measures and softer community engagement strategies are needed. It notes that existing legislation covers many security needs, but that preventing radicalization requires working with communities and addressing social factors. The key challenge is implementing grassroots programs to identify and support at-risk individuals, as these "soft measures" will be most effective against threats of extremism and recruitment.
Man Haron Monis' violent siege in Sydney raises questions about how a person with his criminal history was released on bail and able to carry out the attack. While his actions were driven by delusion and narcissism, they still meet the definition of terrorism. The Islamic State has actively encouraged "lone wolf" attacks in Western countries by troubled, alienated individuals. They view damaged people as weapons to enact violence without being formally connected or following orders. This poses challenges for detection without established patterns of terrorist planning and networks. Increased community engagement and intelligence sharing between security agencies will be important to address the threat of future lone wolf attacks.
The document discusses proposed revisions to Australia's counterterrorism laws announced on Tuesday. While new laws are needed to address the evolving threat of foreign fighters returning home and homegrown terrorists, laws alone are not enough. Community engagement is also vital to opposing extremism and protecting vulnerable individuals. The threat environment has changed with many more Australians fighting with extremist groups in Syria and Iraq compared to previous conflicts in Afghanistan, and these foreign fighters may return home to carry out terrorist acts. However, any legal changes still require careful consultation to avoid eroding community trust and goodwill, which are important elements of security.
This document discusses the growing threat of ISIS and how it has become directly connected to threats in Australia. It notes that ISIS has been urging supporters around the world to attack enemies wherever they are through its online magazines. Australian intelligence agencies have intercepted communications showing the connection between foreign fighters traveling to Syria and Iraq and homegrown extremism in Australia. The raising of the terror threat level and recent counter-terrorism raids in Australia reflect this increased threat from both foreign fighters and lone actors being inspired by groups like ISIS. To address the threat, the document argues that military and police responses alone are not enough and that a broader community effort is needed.
The document discusses the rise of ISIS in Iraq and Syria and argues that defeating ISIS requires more than just military force. It will require the Iraqi government, led by Nouri al-Maliki, to build consensus with Kurds and Sunnis to undermine the social support ISIS currently has. While military efforts are important, the key to rolling back ISIS's gains will be addressing the political issues that have disaffected Sunni communities and strengthened ISIS.
The document discusses how Muslim communities can help fight extremism in Australia. It notes that Islamic State is targeting and recruiting Australian youth. While security agencies and police play a key role, prevention is better than cure. Countering violent extremism programs in other countries work with former extremists and communities to rehabilitate and reintegrate those who have been radicalized. Such community-based counter-terrorism efforts are essential for Australia to develop a holistic approach and turn the tide against extremist recruitment.
The document discusses the Sydney cafe hostage crisis and the threat of lone wolf terrorism. It argues that while terrorism is an unlikely threat compared to other dangers, lone wolf attacks carried out by damaged individuals in the name of Islamic State are a growing threat. Lone wolf terrorists like Man Haron Monis, the hostage taker, are appealing to Islamic State because even pathetic actors can achieve notoriety through highly publicized attacks. The threat of copycat lone wolf sieges and hostage situations is increasing.
The document discusses Europe's response to the Charlie Hebdo attacks in Paris. It summarizes the views of some who argue radical Islam is embedded in Islam itself, while others say the terrorists do not represent Islam. It profiles the attackers and notes they followed a pattern of becoming radicalized in prison then carrying out attacks after training abroad. While the threat is real, most Muslims do not support terrorism. There is no simple response, but attitudes and actions will shape future developments.
The document discusses Europe's response to the Charlie Hebdo attacks in Paris. It summarizes the views of prominent figures on whether Islam itself is responsible for terrorism. It also profiles the attackers and notes commonalities with other recent extremists in Europe. While a small minority of Muslims hold extreme views, the vast majority do not, and the issue affects all societies. A balanced, nuanced response is needed to address the complex social and religious factors driving radicalization.
The terrorist attack in Paris displayed elements both familiar and novel. The attackers, two French-born brothers of North African descent with criminal histories, carried out the attack in a professional manner, shooting 12 people dead at the offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo. While past lone wolf attacks in France and other countries involved smaller scales and were seeking attention, this attack was larger in scale and deadlier, displaying the professionalism of a terrorist network while still being carried out autonomously. The attack raises concerns that lone wolf terrorism may become increasingly sophisticated and effective if inspired by groups like al-Qaeda.
The document discusses how to appropriately respond to terrorist attacks like the Charlie Hebdo shooting in Paris. It examines different perspectives on the root causes of Islamic extremism and analyzes the backgrounds and motivations of recent attackers in France, Canada, and other Western countries. While acknowledging the threat posed by a small minority of radicalized Muslims, the document argues against linking terrorism to Islam as a whole. It stresses the importance of avoiding reactions that strengthen the extremist narrative or divide societies, and instead promoting unity and democratic values.
- The protests in Turkey began as a peaceful demonstration against plans to develop Gezi Park in Istanbul but escalated after a heavy-handed police response using tear gas and riot gear.
- While some see parallels to the Arab Spring uprisings, the author argues Turkey has already undergone democratic reforms and economic growth in past decades and this is not a Turkish Spring.
- The long-serving Prime Minister Erdogan is seen as increasingly authoritarian and out of touch, fueling discontent among former supporters, though the government remains secular rather than Islamist.
- The author believes Turkey will withstand this political crisis due to its history of overcoming challenges, and the more conciliatory President Gul can help reduce
A small radical fringe element within the Australian Muslim community engages in provocative and sometimes violent protests, damaging the image of Muslims. These fringe groups like Al-Furqan and Hizb ut-Tahrir involve only a few dozen or hundred people but receive disproportionate media attention. Mainstream Muslim leaders work closely with police to address extremism and support rehabilitation efforts, demonstrating that Australian Muslims are well integrated and do not widely support extremist views.
- Journalist Peter Greste was sentenced to 7 years in prison in Egypt along with two Al Jazeera colleagues, despite expectations that they would be released after lobbying by foreign officials.
- Greste and his colleagues were caught in the middle of a geopolitical feud between Qatar, which owns Al Jazeera, and Saudi Arabia/Egypt, as the two sides back opposing factions in the region.
- Their imprisonment is part of a broader crackdown in Egypt against the Muslim Brotherhood and political dissent that risks fueling further extremism, as authoritarian actions in the past have breathed new life into terrorist movements.
Joko Widodo was recently elected president of Indonesia in what was described as one of the largest democratic elections ever held. He will lead the 10th largest economy in the world, surpassing countries like Italy and Canada. As an outsider with no connections to the political elite, Widodo faces challenges reforming the economy and bureaucracy, but aims to create positive change through ambitious infrastructure plans and improving education. He is assembling a cabinet focused on merit over political ties to best address the significant tasks ahead.
The document summarizes President Joko Widodo's new cabinet in Indonesia. It notes that while the cabinet lacks "star power" and prominent figures, it has several positive attributes. Positives include that over half the ministers are under 45, eight are women, and many have advanced degrees from Western universities. However, the document also points out some controversial appointments made due to political pressures, such as the Defense Minister who breaks tradition of being a civilian. Overall, the assessment is that the cabinet seems oriented towards business and economic growth, and could make for a generally competent government.
The execution of Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr by Saudi Arabia has exacerbated tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran. The execution was seen as a provocation by Iran and has reignited the proxy conflict between the two regional powers. The rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran dates back to the Iranian revolution but in recent decades they have exploited sectarian divisions and used proxy militias to counter each other. The execution threatens fragile hopes of resolving ongoing conflicts in the region such as Syria and Yemen.
ISIS memiliki propaganda yang lebih canggih daripada gerakan teroris sebelumnya, menggunakan video, media sosial, dan majalah daring untuk merekrut pendukung. Meski Indonesia berhasil mencegah serangan teroris, ISIS mampu menarik lebih banyak pemuda Indonesia dibanding konflik Afghanistan, menantang upaya pencegahan ekstremisme kekerasan.
The rise of ISIS caught many by surprise with its swift conquest of Mosul in 2014 and declaration of a caliphate. While some hoped ISIS would not strongly influence stable societies like Indonesia's, hundreds have been seduced by its propaganda and networks, with estimates of Indonesians who have joined ranging from 200 to over 600. ISIS's recruitment poses a real danger as its online and personal outreach is highly sophisticated and effective at identifying and grooming potential supporters. With the numbers being radicalized sharply rising across Asia, Indonesia likely faces a greater terrorism challenge from ISIS than ever before as it transforms existing extremist networks within Indonesian society.
This document discusses radicalization and lone wolf terrorist attacks inspired by ISIS. It notes that the recent shooting in Sydney fits the profile of lone wolf attacks called for by ISIS. It describes several other failed or foiled terrorist plots in Australia. The document argues that while radicalization is a rising threat, families are the front line of defense as many attacks have been prevented due to friends or family reporting concerning behavior. It calls for communities to work together to recognize the signs of radicalization and intervene to prevent more young Australians from engaging in violence.
The document discusses the challenge of countering radicalization in Australia. It notes that past counterterrorism operations have primarily focused on responding after the fact, and that many of those convicted went on to join terrorist groups overseas. It argues that a more effective approach is needed that moves beyond just policing and involves a nationwide program to monitor and provide support to all individuals at risk of radicalization through community networks and relationships. The alternative of only police interventions buys time but does not solve the underlying problem, and a collaborative effort is needed to counter the social networks that effectively spread radical ideologies.
The document discusses the threat of extremism in Australia and calls for a holistic approach involving both security measures and community programs. It notes that recent events have brought the threat of groups like ISIS closer to home for Australians. While security agencies and police play an important role, prevention through community programs that help rehabilitate and reintegrate radicalized youth are also needed. Countries in Europe have had some success with "countering violent extremism" programs that work with former extremists and community groups; Australia should support similar initiatives to help Muslim communities combat radicalization.
This document discusses the Paris terrorist attacks in November 2015 and analyzes how ISIS was able to carry out such large-scale, coordinated attacks. It suggests that intelligence agencies have consistently underestimated ISIS's capabilities and intentions. The attacks demonstrated that ISIS had become able to conduct sophisticated, "Mumbai-style" attacks involving multiple teams of gunmen and suicide bombers, which was previously only within al-Qaeda's capabilities. Figuring out how the Paris attackers avoided detection is seen as key to preventing future attacks, but relying solely on digital surveillance may not be enough if attackers communicate in person. Strong community partnerships will be important to detect radicalization at early stages.
The execution of Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr by Saudi Arabia has exacerbated tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran. The execution was seen as a provocation by Iran and has reignited the proxy conflict between the two regional powers. The rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran dates back to the Iranian revolution but in recent decades they have exploited sectarian divisions and used proxy militias to counter each other. The execution threatens fragile hopes of resolving conflicts like the Syrian civil war and fighting ISIS.
The Jakarta attack in January 2016 showed the need for more than just tactical responses to terrorism. While Indonesian police responded effectively to shut down the attack, the mastermind Bahrun Naim and the hundreds of other IS supporters in Indonesia will attempt more attacks. This attack marked a shift as it was the first major attack in Jakarta in 6.5 years, it was carried out in the name of IS, and it utilized the same tactics as other brazen IS attacks. Strategic long-term responses are needed to address the underlying extremist networks and ideologies that drive these attacks.
The January terrorist attacks in Jakarta were carried out by poorly prepared local militants instead of expert foreign fighters as initially believed. While the attacks failed to cause mass casualties, future attacks are likely to be more serious due to Indonesia's large population of radicalized former inmates being released and the continued spread of ISIS's influence. Authorities must address the threat posed by radicalization in prisons to prevent experienced militants from carrying out more deadly attacks.
The document discusses Europe's response to the Charlie Hebdo attacks in Paris. It summarizes the views of prominent figures on whether Islam itself is responsible for terrorism. It also profiles the attackers and notes commonalities with other recent extremists in Europe. While a small minority of Muslims hold extreme views, the vast majority do not, and the issue affects all societies. A balanced, nuanced response is needed to address the complex social and religious factors driving radicalization.
The terrorist attack in Paris displayed elements both familiar and novel. The attackers, two French-born brothers of North African descent with criminal histories, carried out the attack in a professional manner, shooting 12 people dead at the offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo. While past lone wolf attacks in France and other countries involved smaller scales and were seeking attention, this attack was larger in scale and deadlier, displaying the professionalism of a terrorist network while still being carried out autonomously. The attack raises concerns that lone wolf terrorism may become increasingly sophisticated and effective if inspired by groups like al-Qaeda.
The document discusses how to appropriately respond to terrorist attacks like the Charlie Hebdo shooting in Paris. It examines different perspectives on the root causes of Islamic extremism and analyzes the backgrounds and motivations of recent attackers in France, Canada, and other Western countries. While acknowledging the threat posed by a small minority of radicalized Muslims, the document argues against linking terrorism to Islam as a whole. It stresses the importance of avoiding reactions that strengthen the extremist narrative or divide societies, and instead promoting unity and democratic values.
- The protests in Turkey began as a peaceful demonstration against plans to develop Gezi Park in Istanbul but escalated after a heavy-handed police response using tear gas and riot gear.
- While some see parallels to the Arab Spring uprisings, the author argues Turkey has already undergone democratic reforms and economic growth in past decades and this is not a Turkish Spring.
- The long-serving Prime Minister Erdogan is seen as increasingly authoritarian and out of touch, fueling discontent among former supporters, though the government remains secular rather than Islamist.
- The author believes Turkey will withstand this political crisis due to its history of overcoming challenges, and the more conciliatory President Gul can help reduce
A small radical fringe element within the Australian Muslim community engages in provocative and sometimes violent protests, damaging the image of Muslims. These fringe groups like Al-Furqan and Hizb ut-Tahrir involve only a few dozen or hundred people but receive disproportionate media attention. Mainstream Muslim leaders work closely with police to address extremism and support rehabilitation efforts, demonstrating that Australian Muslims are well integrated and do not widely support extremist views.
- Journalist Peter Greste was sentenced to 7 years in prison in Egypt along with two Al Jazeera colleagues, despite expectations that they would be released after lobbying by foreign officials.
- Greste and his colleagues were caught in the middle of a geopolitical feud between Qatar, which owns Al Jazeera, and Saudi Arabia/Egypt, as the two sides back opposing factions in the region.
- Their imprisonment is part of a broader crackdown in Egypt against the Muslim Brotherhood and political dissent that risks fueling further extremism, as authoritarian actions in the past have breathed new life into terrorist movements.
Joko Widodo was recently elected president of Indonesia in what was described as one of the largest democratic elections ever held. He will lead the 10th largest economy in the world, surpassing countries like Italy and Canada. As an outsider with no connections to the political elite, Widodo faces challenges reforming the economy and bureaucracy, but aims to create positive change through ambitious infrastructure plans and improving education. He is assembling a cabinet focused on merit over political ties to best address the significant tasks ahead.
The document summarizes President Joko Widodo's new cabinet in Indonesia. It notes that while the cabinet lacks "star power" and prominent figures, it has several positive attributes. Positives include that over half the ministers are under 45, eight are women, and many have advanced degrees from Western universities. However, the document also points out some controversial appointments made due to political pressures, such as the Defense Minister who breaks tradition of being a civilian. Overall, the assessment is that the cabinet seems oriented towards business and economic growth, and could make for a generally competent government.
The execution of Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr by Saudi Arabia has exacerbated tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran. The execution was seen as a provocation by Iran and has reignited the proxy conflict between the two regional powers. The rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran dates back to the Iranian revolution but in recent decades they have exploited sectarian divisions and used proxy militias to counter each other. The execution threatens fragile hopes of resolving ongoing conflicts in the region such as Syria and Yemen.
ISIS memiliki propaganda yang lebih canggih daripada gerakan teroris sebelumnya, menggunakan video, media sosial, dan majalah daring untuk merekrut pendukung. Meski Indonesia berhasil mencegah serangan teroris, ISIS mampu menarik lebih banyak pemuda Indonesia dibanding konflik Afghanistan, menantang upaya pencegahan ekstremisme kekerasan.
The rise of ISIS caught many by surprise with its swift conquest of Mosul in 2014 and declaration of a caliphate. While some hoped ISIS would not strongly influence stable societies like Indonesia's, hundreds have been seduced by its propaganda and networks, with estimates of Indonesians who have joined ranging from 200 to over 600. ISIS's recruitment poses a real danger as its online and personal outreach is highly sophisticated and effective at identifying and grooming potential supporters. With the numbers being radicalized sharply rising across Asia, Indonesia likely faces a greater terrorism challenge from ISIS than ever before as it transforms existing extremist networks within Indonesian society.
This document discusses radicalization and lone wolf terrorist attacks inspired by ISIS. It notes that the recent shooting in Sydney fits the profile of lone wolf attacks called for by ISIS. It describes several other failed or foiled terrorist plots in Australia. The document argues that while radicalization is a rising threat, families are the front line of defense as many attacks have been prevented due to friends or family reporting concerning behavior. It calls for communities to work together to recognize the signs of radicalization and intervene to prevent more young Australians from engaging in violence.
The document discusses the challenge of countering radicalization in Australia. It notes that past counterterrorism operations have primarily focused on responding after the fact, and that many of those convicted went on to join terrorist groups overseas. It argues that a more effective approach is needed that moves beyond just policing and involves a nationwide program to monitor and provide support to all individuals at risk of radicalization through community networks and relationships. The alternative of only police interventions buys time but does not solve the underlying problem, and a collaborative effort is needed to counter the social networks that effectively spread radical ideologies.
The document discusses the threat of extremism in Australia and calls for a holistic approach involving both security measures and community programs. It notes that recent events have brought the threat of groups like ISIS closer to home for Australians. While security agencies and police play an important role, prevention through community programs that help rehabilitate and reintegrate radicalized youth are also needed. Countries in Europe have had some success with "countering violent extremism" programs that work with former extremists and community groups; Australia should support similar initiatives to help Muslim communities combat radicalization.
This document discusses the Paris terrorist attacks in November 2015 and analyzes how ISIS was able to carry out such large-scale, coordinated attacks. It suggests that intelligence agencies have consistently underestimated ISIS's capabilities and intentions. The attacks demonstrated that ISIS had become able to conduct sophisticated, "Mumbai-style" attacks involving multiple teams of gunmen and suicide bombers, which was previously only within al-Qaeda's capabilities. Figuring out how the Paris attackers avoided detection is seen as key to preventing future attacks, but relying solely on digital surveillance may not be enough if attackers communicate in person. Strong community partnerships will be important to detect radicalization at early stages.
The execution of Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr by Saudi Arabia has exacerbated tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran. The execution was seen as a provocation by Iran and has reignited the proxy conflict between the two regional powers. The rivalry between Saudi Arabia and Iran dates back to the Iranian revolution but in recent decades they have exploited sectarian divisions and used proxy militias to counter each other. The execution threatens fragile hopes of resolving conflicts like the Syrian civil war and fighting ISIS.
The Jakarta attack in January 2016 showed the need for more than just tactical responses to terrorism. While Indonesian police responded effectively to shut down the attack, the mastermind Bahrun Naim and the hundreds of other IS supporters in Indonesia will attempt more attacks. This attack marked a shift as it was the first major attack in Jakarta in 6.5 years, it was carried out in the name of IS, and it utilized the same tactics as other brazen IS attacks. Strategic long-term responses are needed to address the underlying extremist networks and ideologies that drive these attacks.
The January terrorist attacks in Jakarta were carried out by poorly prepared local militants instead of expert foreign fighters as initially believed. While the attacks failed to cause mass casualties, future attacks are likely to be more serious due to Indonesia's large population of radicalized former inmates being released and the continued spread of ISIS's influence. Authorities must address the threat posed by radicalization in prisons to prevent experienced militants from carrying out more deadly attacks.