Tragedy stuck Europe on Tuesday, March 22, 2016. The Zaventem Airport in the heart of Belgium was bombed by members of ISIS. Two explosions occurred around 8 a.m., killing 10 people instantly. This attack was followed by another bombing at the Maelbeek Metro in Brussels around 9:10 a.m. that killed 20 people. Around 270 people suffered injuries, including lower limb damage and severe burns. ISIS has claimed responsibility for these acts of terror in the wake of Salah Abdeslam’s capture on March 18 in Brussels, Belgium. This man is the only known Paris attacker to have survived on Nov. 13, 2015.
Brussels lies in the core of Europe. After the attacks, the streets remained quiet and naked. The entire city was struck with the fear of terrorism. The people attacked in Brussels were innocent civilians who never believed they were under a serious threat. The attacks symbolize the rise of terrorism in Europe as ISIS seeks destruction. It was no mistake that the European Union’s headquarters were nearby the attacks at the metro. There were many important buildings in that surrounding area, including the European Parliament and the European External Action Service. The victim was Brussels, yet the aim was set on Europe. ISIS, therefore, appears to have no limits in their conquest of widespread international fear.
The immediate threat to the rest of Europe is still unclear. It is important, however, to keep our hearts with the victims of the crime. The people of Brussels were undeserving of the terror that besieged them. That’s why it’s important to think about what has actually happened to the people before paying more attention to ISIS. It will only give them what they want—international
propaganda. ISIS gets enough news attention already—it’s time to think about the innocent instead of repeatedly discussing the attackers.Brussels has suffered a serious attack this past week, and many lives have been lost due to terrorism. That’s why my heart stands with the victims of the attacks. The innocent should not have to perish under the violence of a terrorist group. Morning commuters on their way to work that are suddenly left disheveled on the streets is injustice. This event occurs only four months after the Paris attacks—where the victims aren’t shown in the media as heavily as their attackers. The crime that has occurred is horrifying and deserves to be regarded as a tragedy of the harmless. My thoughts go out to the families that have suffered during this crisis and I pray that no more unnecessary violence occurs to any other European countries.
The threat of ISIS against Europe has increased in the past year with these recent attacks. Staying properly informed, therefore, is crucial. It’s not necessary to lock yourself in your room with fear—but it’s important to realize that what's happened are acts of violence against European cities. The vulnerability of Europe has become evident and it’s disrespectful to add attention to ISIS while families are suffering the loss of loved ones. My heart lies with the victims of this tragedy and I send my sympathy to the people who are in anguish over the loss of someone they loved.
