Though the world’s most wanted militant, Osama bin Laden, has been killed by the US troops in Pakistan, Israelis are not taking any chance when it comes to security. Laden’s killing has made them more inclined for further tightening of security.
In fact, Laden’s death was prominently featured in corporate and business presentations to visiting journalists, ahead of the global water exhibition and conference here. Mei Raanana, an Israeli company which provides water services, made it a point to include the slain militant’s photo while explaining the impact of any untoward incident and how an early warning and detection can minimise the impact.
A senior official from the Israel foreign ministry told Business Standard that: “It’s a good thing Laden has been killed. However, one thing is clear that the killing of Laden and the trade and commerce and international cooperation are not interdependent, but independent of each other. Israel is committed to step up its efforts against terrorism, and we are aware of similar efforts being taken by India, which is also a target of al Qaeda in the absence of its supremo Laden.
The official said security was crucial and Israel would not make any compromise on this aspect. “The government and citizens in general are aware of the possible impact of Laden’s killing. However, they are quite united to take on challenges.”
“We are really impressed by India’s preparedness, especially when it was facing a similar problem. We are also impressed by India’s decision making process to face similar challenges ahead. Jammu & Kashmir, in particular, is the easy target and we suspect the al Qaeda may try to focus on it. However, we have no doubt that India is ready to tackle any eventuality.”
As far as cooperation in homeland security, border security and military is concerned, it is increasing day by day. “Israel is quite keen to promote such transactions and is quite hopeful that there are ample opportunities for its growth,” the official said.
(The correspondent was in Tel Aviv as a guest of the Israeli government)
