The New York City Police Department?s (see logo) proactive approach to combating terrorism highlights a number of broad lessons that other law enforcement and intelligence agencies should learn from.

First, al-Qaeda and its affiliated networks’ intentions are not secret, rather their strategies, tactics, and plans can be found on the Internet. For example, the strategy paper entitled ?Jihad in Iraq: Hopes and Dangers? was published online by the Center for Mujahideen Services. This essay clearly stated that al-Qaeda and its affiliates believed that the Spanish government could not ?handle more than two or three strikes at most before it is compelled to withdraw because of popular pressure.? This document provides a detailed explanation of al-Qaeda?s logic, explains the reasons behind on the Madrid railway bombings , and offers insight on where al-Qaeda might strike next.