Opening Remarks at the ICT World Summit

Dear friends, experts, executives, academicians, politicians and ordinary people who are interested in Global Terrorism and Counter Terrorism.

It is for the 21st time that I’m standing on this podium, giving my opening remarks to such a distinctive audience.

I still remember that when we have taken upon ourselves this endeavor, to put up research institute that will deal with the only topic of Terrorism, we ourselves were skeptic as to the viability of such an institute, let alone its durability and centrality in World affairs. A question mark at the outset has turned into a lifetime job!

The important role played by ICT in the global community, has developed to advising Government, international and regional organizations, conducting research as part leading international consortiums, and fostering international cooperations.

Israel dealt with secular Terrorism, since the closing of the 19th century. Sep.11 introduced the radical Islam element into the equation. Also, it turned Terrorism to a Global phenomenon.

For about a decade (2010 & hence) we were tempted to believe that the young generation of Islam, will defeat the old and introduce Democracy to the young Arab and Muslim world. We were completely wrong. The “Spring revolution” as it was dubbed, was not more than an illusion, that served as an accelerator to the spread of radical Islam.

Observing the M.E., one may assume that it’s present structure and involvement of regional and global powers, will enable the “good guys” to handle the “bad”. yet, the present hot spot “Terror Territory” is Africa, more specific the Sahel belt countries, where dozen or more of radical Muslim terrorist groups well-armed and financed are played havoc, in that poor and God forsaken continent. And of course, we already can witness the negative involvement of Russia and China there.

The purpose of the ICT annual Conference, is to keep on with the tradition established in the late 90’s, and contribute to the never ending needs of ideas as how to assure the success of the free world fighting Terrorism.

The ultimate question of course is, can Global radical Islam be defeated? My humble answer is that real and intensive international cooperation can turn radical Terror into chronic but manageable disease.