Since the Madrid subway bombings and the Italian appeasement of kidnappers in Iraq, terrorists have found that certain countries can be neutralized by simply by striking at them directly. In the aftermath of the Madrid terror attacks, Spain promptly voted out the popular conservative government and pulled its troops out of Iraq. Al Qaeda also relied on kidnappings as a means to bring about its goals. In kidnapping an Italian journalist these Islamic radicals found that certain governments were willing to pay for their release, thus setting off a wave of kidnappings in Iraq. These terrorists then attempted to employ the same strategy against Britain, but in spite of the July 7 subway bombings and the many lives lost, Britain has stood resolute, thus far, and has refused to cave in to terrorist’s demands.

Now there is word that these Islamic terrorists are hoping for better luck in Australia. The Australian Prime Minister, John Howard, has warned that certain intelligence suggests that Al Qaeda may be planning an attack in the land of oz. Australians are no stranger to terrorism. In the Bali bombings in Indonesia, dozens of Australians were killed at the popular tourist destination. But Australia itself has never been hit. There is no doubt that the Prime Minister would not cower in the face of terror, he has made that point clear on numerous occasions, but what will be the reaction of the Australian people? Will they stand firm in the mold of Britain or will they shrink and cower in the mold of Spain and Italy? We’d like to think the Australians understand that surrender only invites more terror. We’d like to think that Australia understands the costs of appeasement but only time will tell.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,3-1854465,00.html