The threat that weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) pose to the nation’s security is real and significant. However, the way that WMDs have been portrayed by numerous politicians and the media has blown the threat they pose completely out of proportion (Benjamin, 2015).
First, it would be extremely difficult for an independent or non-state funded terrorist organization to gain access to either an already complete WMD such as a nuclear or atomic weapon or to get the parts needed to make a weapon on their own such as a biological or chemical WMD. Nuclear and atomic bombs or missiles are not only extremely expensive to produce and store but also are extensively monitored by a number of states. Any missing nuclear bombs are not likely to get far without some authority knowing and therefore intervening at some point to make sure that they are returned. Biological and chemical agents, like nuclear weapons are also highly regulated and monitored. To be sure some of the most dangerous agents are under extreme security protocols. Any groups attempting to construct such a WMD, would first need the know-how to combine the ingredients, then would need to be able to purchase or create their own version of the necessary parts. While possible, it is highly unlikely that the “perfect storm” of circumstances for success will exist often.
Second, domestic security protocols and procedures make it unlikely that a terrorist organization would be able to procure or produce a WMD domestically. Accordingly, if a WMD could be used against the nation, it would have to be brought in from abroad. While U.S. border and immigration controls are not foolproof, they are more than effective and redundant enough to stop a WMD from being brought into the country personally or shipped into the country independently.
Lastly, there has never been a terrorist attack that has been carried out with WMDs. While this does not guarantee that it could not ever happen, but it suggest that, up until now either: security measures have been effective enough to stop WMD attacks or terrorist organizations are simply unable or unwilling to plan and carry out an attack with WMDs.
Again, the threat of a terrorist attack using WMDs is real. All necessary precautions should be taken in order to stop such an attack from occurring. On the other hand, simply because they are a threat does not mean that the media and politicians are right to blow the threat out of proportion.
References
Benjamin, D. (2015, May 7). Terrorism blown out of proportion? Retrieved from http://chicagopolicyreview.org/2015/05/07/terrorism-blown-out-of-proportion-daniel-benjamin-assesses-the-threat
