"If you stop one terror attack in the U.S., it may be connected to multiple other plots out there that are connected. If you reveal that you stopped one plot, it may tip our hand"
- Patrick McHenry
About this Quote
In the quote by Patrick McHenry, the speaker stresses the complex and interlinked nature of terrorist risks and the fragile balance that should be kept in counterterrorism efforts. McHenry recommends that a single foiled fear plot in the U.S. might not be an isolated occurrence however possibly part of a broader network of interconnected plots. The implication here is that terrorist cells often run in a collaborated manner, and interrupting one plot could have causal sequences on others. This interconnectedness indicates that those associated with stopping such activities should be watchful and strategic in their approach.
Moreover, McHenry warns about the threats of publicizing the prevention of a terrorist attack. Exposing that authorities have intercepted a plot might unintentionally expose intelligence approaches, sources, or the extent of understanding about terrorist networks. This revelation may notify other operatives within those networks, triggering them to modify their strategies, hole up, or improve their functional security to prevent detection.
In this context, "tip our hand" refers to revealing one's strategy or level of awareness to opponents. In counterterrorism, maintaining secrecy about capabilities and intelligence-gathering methods is important. By advertising successful interventions, authorities might compromise continuous examinations or future operations. The quote records the intrinsic tension between showing successes in keeping the public safe and ensuring long-lasting tactical benefits over terrorist companies.
In general, McHenry's declaration underscores the complexities of national security work, where success frequently relies on privacy, and public acknowledgment can in some cases undermine general security objectives. It serves as a suggestion of the need for careful communication and strategic decision-making in the world of counterterrorism, where information must be managed with precision to avoid accidentally strengthening the enemies one is trying to dismantle.
This quote is written / told by Patrick McHenry somewhere between October 22, 1975 and today. He/she was a famous Politician from USA.
The author also have 2 other quotes.
"As the bill requires, any terror alert system must give people and organizations some indication about what steps they must take to improve their own security and assist in the Nation's security"
"Guantanamo allows us to secure dangerous detainees without the risk of escape, while at the same time providing us with valuable intelligence information on how best to proceed in the war against terror and prevent future attacks"
