Causes of terrorism

The space for peace efforts in the Middle East appears to be narrowing as the specter of terrorism once again raises its head. Feelings of insecurity and uncertainty have emerged as the peace efforts stall.

There are many people who fear that the peace process will lose its direction, that it will lose its breath and vitality unless it is revitalized immediately. A real threat to peace comes from such things as terrorism, radicalism, fanaticism and extremism.

It is clear that acts of terrorism anywhere, including the Middle East, endanger the efforts to bring about peace and calm. This is the reason why (Egyptian) President Hosni Mubarak, during his visit to the United States this (last) week made a point of mentioning the problems of terrorism and peace in the Middle East.

We believe that terrorism comes easily to the surface whenever peace is not achieved. In a climate of tenseness, violence and disturbances, many people become easily frustrated and aggressive and become inclined to apply terror. On the other hand, all acts of terrorism, violence or suppression will make it difficult for peace to come about.

In the case of the Middle East, we believe that the attainment of peace must be accelerated in order to put an end to the feelings of frustration, aggressiveness, terror and desperation which are complications that arise from the protracted enmities between Palestine and Israel. Frustration and aggressive tendencies will emerge if peace is not established quickly.

-- Kompas, Jakarta