Israel Matzav: An Israeli's perspective on Times Square

An Israeli's perspective on Times Square

David Hazony has some advice that ought to make Americans think about how lucky they are that the bomb in Times Square on Sunday did not explode.

You can't be lucky forever. While security in the US was tightened in office buildings, sports stadiums and airports since 9/11, there are still far too many targets for ambitious terrorists. While I love the freedom of being able to enter stores and shopping malls unmolested in the US, I fear that's a luxury that Americans may not be able to have much longer. I also fear the terror attack that may - God forbid - kill dozens of people and awaken you to that reality. We've been aware of it for a long time here. Let me give you an idea of the sort of thing I fear in the US.

On December 5, 2005, a 'Palestinian' suicide bomber blew himself up outside the Sharon Mall in Netanya. Five people were killed and 58 were wounded. The only reason the casualty total was not worse - a lot worse - was because people had identified the terrorist as a suicide bomber, and because the guard prevented him from entering the crowded mall where his bomb would have had more impact.

According to witnesses, a female police officer and civilians passing by identified the terrorist as a suicide bomber, and managed to shout out warnings to others. The guard to the shopping center prevented the terrorist from entering the building, but could not prevent him from blowing himself up. He was killed as he prevented the suicide bomber from entering the mall.

Please read the whole thing (especially if you live outside of Israel) and think about how much of your personal freedom you are willing to compromise to have a better chance of saving your life. Personally, I'd rather be inconvenienced but alive.

Israel Matzav: An Israeli's perspective on Times Square