Terror attacks multiply

The series of deadly attacks at the Egyptian Red Sea resort of Sharm el Sheik, killing at least 60 and injuring over 100, has come on the heels of a second round of bombings in London, thankfully causing far less damage. While there is no evidence as yet that the attacks are linked in any way, it seems indisputable that we are now in the middle of a concerted terror offensive.

There are no words to express our anger and disgust at those who kill and maim innocent people indiscriminately and with impunity for the sole reason of spreading terror. Our hearts go out to the victims and their near and dear ones.

Islam, which literally means a religion of peace, does not sanction suicide, far less the killing of innocents by suicide bombers. Those who take the name of Islam to do it are shaming a great religion and putting Muslims throughout the world at some risk.

It seems to us that the bombings were approached by the British authorities in a calm and mature manner, with Muslim MPs and religious and community leaders being consulted and co-opted. That said, the recent shooting to death of a young man at a subway station is potentially troubling. The rules of engagement have been changed in light of the gravity of the current situation. It may well be that the police had their reason to act as they did, but it is important that the public be fully aware of how and why such an action was taken.

It is important at a time like this to approach things in a calm and sagacious manner. This is how the authorities cracked the first London bombing case so swiftly. This is the toughest and most delicate investigation the British authorities have ever been faced with, and the Egyptians are about to experience the same thing. There must be no misuse of the new powers that law enforcement will need to get to the bottom of such atrocities, either in the UK or Egypt or elsewhere.

Which brings us to Bangladesh. Our observations here are two-fold. One, the government must do more to contain any possible spread of terror. CCTV is a good idea, but it is not enough. The government must take the threat seriously. Two, the fact that the threat is real and needs to be addressed cannot be an excuse for government repression and harassment of its opponents. A cool and clear head is the order of the day.