ABSTRACT
Suicide bombers are today’s weapon of choice. Terrorists are using suicide bombers because they are a low cost, low technology, and low risk weapon. Suicide bombers are readily available, require little training, leave no trace behind, and strike fear into the general population. The success of suicide bombers depends upon an element of surprise, as well as accessibility to targeted areas or populations.
Both of these required elements have been enjoyed by women suicide bombers. Female suicide bombers were used in the past; however, the recent spate of them in different venues, in different countries, and for different terrorist organizations forces us to study this terrorist method.
What is a Suicide Bomber?
The Institute for Counter-Terrorism (ICT) defined suicide bombing as an “operational method in which the very act of the attack is dependent upon the death of the perpetrator. The terrorist is fully aware that if she/he does not kill her/himself, the planned attack will not be implemented.”(Web, 1) “Suicide bomber” is an emotionally-laden term. Some describe these individuals as “homicide bombers” or “suicide terrorists” to emphasize the murder and terror brought about by this act; others deem these individuals as “martyrs” who have died for their faith.
Why Use Suicide Bombers?
Terrorism has been defined as “a synthesis of war and theater. Suicide bombing is used because of the following reasons:
• It is a simple and low-cost operation (requiring no escape route or rescue mission).
• It increases the likelihood of mass casualties and extensive damage (since the bomber can choose the exact time, location, and circumstances of the attack).
• There is no fear that interrogated terrorists will surrender important information (because their deaths are certain).
• It has an immense impact on the public and the media (because it precipitates an overwhelming sense of.....
