How to Condemn Terrorism

If you want to convince the world that you condemn terrorism, here are some examples of what you might want to say.

Stefan Sharkansky / June 2, 2001

This is a follow-up to the latest installment of my correspondence with an official at the Saudi Embassy in Washington DC -- where the Saudi condemns "all forms of terrorism", but refuses to define suicide bombings in Israel as "terrorism" or Israeli civilian casualties of such attacks as "innocent" victims. I was curious to know whether such equivocation is normal among the world's diplomats. Fortunately, it is not.

The following is a sample of statements from around the world that condemn various terrorist attacks against innocent Israelis. If the Saudis want to show the world they are serious about condemning terrorism, but are too overcome with emotion to find the right words, here are a few examples. Of course, there is more to making peace than issuing statements denouncing terrorism, but it is one way to start.

Australia: "I deplore the latest suicide bombing at a hotel in the seaside resort of Netanya in Northern Israel in which at least 19 Israelis have been killed. ... I am sure all Australians join with me in condemning in the strongest possible terms this act of terrorism..."(Foreign Minister Alexander Downer, March 28, 2002)

Belgium: "Belgium condemns the attack in Hadera on 17 January in the strongest possible terms " (Foreign Ministry communique January 18, 2002)

France: "The new attacks during the last few hours in Israel arouse horror and indignation. ... I want to express my solidarity to the Israeli people and government in this ordeal." (Foreign Minister Hubert Vedrine, December 3, 2001)

India: "India condemns the suicide bomb attacks in Tel Aviv on 1st June which led to the loss of life and injuries to a large number of innocent people. Such act of violence cannot be justified on any grounds." (Foreign Ministry official briefing, June 4, 2001)

Japan: "I am deeply shocked with the terrorist suicide attack in the suburbs of Tel Aviv in Israel, on the night of May 7, ... We feel indignation at such an act of terrorism aimed at innocent civilians and resolutely condemn it." (Foreign Minister Yoriko Kawaguchi, May 8, 2002)

Norway: "I strongly condemn yesterday evening’s terrorist attack in the Israeli town of Rishon Letzion. My thoughts are first and foremost with those who have been bereaved. But my reaction to the people behind such terrorist attacks is one of anger and abhorrence." (Foreign Minister Jan Peterson, May 8, 2002)