Over at the Counterterrorism Blog, there’s a post that asks what the events in New Orleans tell us about the war on terror. The news isn’t good.
What is becoming increasingly clear, almost by the hour, is how the security situation, especially in New Orleans has become dire. The local and State police have been unable to control looting and what has become generalized chaotic violence in some parts of the devastated city. Reports of extreme acts of random violence, including shooting attacks against the police and rescue personnel, as of today are common in the media.
(….)
If America ever suffers a WMD terrorist attack with widespread destruction and casualties, how the Federal Government responds to the Katrina aftermath may be indicative of what the American people could expect after some future massive terrorism event. Unfortunately, what we are seeing with the rapid breakdown of law and order in New Orleans might also be indicative of what could be expected after an extended, large-scale disaster in any large metropolitan area. With that understanding, it becomes clear that humanitarian assistance cannot be provided when there is no security. Safety and security for survivors and relief workers must be provided before real help can begin.
And you can bet that our enemies are watching the events of this week and taking notes.
