Sunday Newscape Magazine

On the news, I watched yet another attempt by terrorists to bring down an American airliner. As I shake my head in disgust it is hard to comprehend what people are thinking to let this potential catastrophic situation happen again. Perhaps the leaders who implement these so-called rules of engagement that are in place should take note from EL AL (the Israeli airline) and learn something.

The people of Israel realized long ago that human life is more important than political correctness or appeasing other nations. That is why their national airline, EL AL is considered the safest in the world.

After a series of terrorist attacks and hijackings in their early years EL AL implemented a military style approach that solved the problem. Every passenger is interviewed before boarding and every piece of luggage is put through a series of tests to make sure nothing gets on board that should not be there. Is this profiling? Indeed it is, but everyone is put through the same course of action no matter who they are.

But there is a big difference between America and Israel when it comes to learning from their mistakes. America is always in reaction while Israel is in control. In other words, America has an awful habit of forgetfulness about horrific events until it happens again. On the other hand, Israel does whatever it takes to make sure events like this will never happen again. The famous Israeli quote “Never Again” is what Israel stands for and they mean it.

The truth about all of this so-called breach of security the press seems to report is not a breach at all, its politics plain and simple. Organizations and special interests groups who oppose extensive screening like EL AL have a grip on Washington politicians like drugs have to an addict. Unfortunately, the people who fly have to pay the price for a system that is corrupt and run by appeasing leaders who are afraid to hurt people’s feelings.

This same type of appeasing others is not restricted to just America, but Europe as well. As soon as the news spread about the so-called crotch terrorist Europeans demanded more screening, but ultimately will never match the superiority Israel has on the industry. Terrorists know Israel is always one step ahead in this game of kill or be killed so like cockroaches terrorists try to find a new source of food.

Undoubtedly, what will solve this problem and not let our airlines become missiles again is having complete control. In other words, the same policies Israel implements should be not considered, but standard. Every person should be screened with the same amount of scrutiny no matter how much of an inconvenienced this becomes. This is not about intruding on people’s rights, it’s about staying alive.

Political correctness, civil rights, and convenience will ultimately kill many people and keep feeding this fire of terrorism. Those who oppose Israeli tactics to keep people safe I applaud you and enjoy your flight. As for myself, I will stick to ground transportation. At least I have a chance to jump out and survive.

© Jerry Maldonado 2009- all rights reserved  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it