Fight against Daesh not over

The Sri Lankan government came to the conclusion, after a thorough investigation in the wake of the terrorist attacks last Easter Sunday, that Daesh stood behind the elaborate and multiple terrorist attacks at churches and hotels in the country.

The attacks were found to be a result of a sophisticated plan to kill as many worshippers as possible and wreak havoc in the country.

If that conclusion holds true and collaborated by other anti-terrorist agencies across the globe, then the fight against Daesh is not over by a long shot, and the job against it is not a done deal yet.

Daesh has lost territorial strongholds in Syria and Iraq but it seems that it has regrouped into another form of threat. This also means that countries must maintain their vigil against it and keep a close watch over their operatives, whether silent or out in the open.

There is no telling where or when Daesh will strike again and how. Security, therefore, is a national priority for most countries, including Jordan. One of the ways that Daesh communicates with the masses and recruits supporters is through social networks and media. Keeping the tabs on the Internet and social media has, unfortunately, become a necessity.

Yet, freedom of opinion must not be confused with any security-oriented measure any country may lawfully take. No nation can afford to solve a problem by creating another one. Freedom of expression is sacred and must be protected. A fair balance between the right to security and freedom of expression is not easy but can be done as long as goodwill prevails.

Meanwhile, countries across the globe can expect more attacks by Daesh in one form or another. Like-minded countries need to regroup and assemble collective actions against all forms of terrorism. The Aqaba forum against terrorism is proving its worth and effectiveness. It deserves even more support and recognition. The Aqaba effort is Jordan's sponsored effort and contribution to international efforts against terrorism from whatever source. All other complementary efforts across the world are called upon to synchronise their efforts with Jordan's Aqaba campaign.