By William Tucker

The Israeli prime minister's anti-terror office issued a statement today urging all Israelis to leave the Sinai Peninsula immediately because of credible information regarding attempts by terrorists to kidnap Israeli citizens. The PM's anti-terror office has a standing warning against visiting the Sinai; however many Israeli's simply choose to ignore their government on this issue. The Sinai is usually a hotbed of terrorist activity by Palestinian groups and other anti-Israeli militants, and as such we should take this warning seriously as the Sinai is a popular tourist destination for many westerners.

In 2004, the Tala Hilton Hotel, a popular resort for Israeli and western tourists, was attacked by Palestinian militants resulting in 34 dead and many injured. With tensions between Palestinians and Israeli increasing as of late it is possible that the most radical of the Palestinian movement may choose to attack tourist destinations again. Furthermore, the Egyptian government has had its hands full with Hezbollah terror cells operating on the peninsula as well. In the near future the political environment in Egypt will be a cause of concern because of upcoming elections and an aging President it is possible that political instability could become a real issue in the region.

Map credit: National Geographic

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By Jenni Hesterman, Counterterrorism Expert
Counter Terror Forum

Augustin Roberto "Bobby" Salcedo was a school board member and assistant high school principal. Salcedo, 33, was abducted and killed by gunmen while visiting his wife's family in Mexico (Gomez Palacio) for the holidays. He was found dead Thursday in the northern state of Durango by Mexican authorities, his brother Carlos Salcedo said. Salcedo was abducted while he and his wife had dinner. Five other men were abducted at the same time and sadly, all were brutally executed.

Continue reading "Kidnapping on the Rise: California Asst Principal Abducted and Killed in Mexico" »

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By Jenni Hesterman

The National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) is the primary clearinghouse for all data related to citizens killed, injured or kidnapped as a result of terrorist activity. The NCTC’s most recent report shows trend data from 2005, 2006 and 2007 concerning “noncombatant” kidnappings. Data shows that there has been a slight increase of kidnappings abroad, not just in Iraq and Afghanistan, but in other areas of instability, such as Africa and Central America.

Continue reading "Kidnapping for Profit on the Rise: Don’t Be a Victim" »

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