Containing terror has, in the past decade, become a top priority on the agenda of the Western democracies. Combating this sophisticated, very modern, often invisible enemy requires the ingenuity, imagination, and determination of the Western leaders and, not less important, support from the general public. If they are to give it, they, in turn, should have a clear understanding of the strategies of their governments. Compromises over the release of hostages or other signs of vacillation in combating terrorists not only strengthen the blackmailers but prolong the war against them. (Author abstract)