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| Europe |
| The Terrorist Threat to the Turin Olympic Games |
| 2006-01-27 |
| Selected passages; Original article offers contextual support. Why Turin is a Likely Target for a Terrorist Attack There are essentially three factors that make Turin a high-value target. First, from a timing perspective, it makes sense to target the city during the Olympics. During the games, the city will be under intense global media coverage, with the attention of millions worldwide focused on the competition. In addition, February is close to the Italian general elections, which are to be held in May. Second, Turin presents a range of attractive targets for Islamic terrorists. Sensitive targets in the city of Turin include the extensive railway system, which literally encircles the town, and the main railway stations (Porta Nuova and Porta Susa), the underground railway, Caselle airport, the public transportation system, religious centers—in particular the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist—and the business district in the city center. Thirdly, Turn holds important symbolic value for Islamic militants. While Rome is Italy's political heart and Milan its primary financial center, Turin is the economic capital of the country. FIAT, the most prominent Italian industrial corporation, and other major companies are located in the city or its hinterland. An attack against Turin would represent an assault on the economic powerhouse of the country and inflict a massive symbolic, if not actual, blow to its entire economic system. Also, Turin has one of the largest Muslim populations in Italy, and it is possible that individuals could provide logistical support to terrorists and help with reconnaissance of potential targets. |
| Posted by:DepotGuy |