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Could a Mumbai-Style Attack Happen in the U.S.?

[Washington Post] David Ignatius - The Mumbai attacks were a ghastly reminder of the threat still posed by al-Qaeda and related terrorist groups. What would happen if roving gunmen infiltrated U.S. cities and started shooting? "Mumbai is a worst-case 'active shooter' problem," says a former CIA officer who helped organize a Department of Homeland Security program on the subject for police chiefs. "It had multiple shooters, multiple locations, mobile threats, willingness to fight the first responders and follow-on SWAT/commando units, well-equipped and well-trained operatives, and a willingness to die. Police department commanders in America should be scratching their heads and praying." The Mumbai attacks are a powerful demonstration of the danger for cities around the world. The reason to discuss such threats isn't to feed anti-terrorism hysteria. The challenge is to understand the adversary so that if an attack comes, the authorities will respond with cool heads and steady aim.
2008-12-03 01:00:00
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