The Power of Modern Weapons Although the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty was signed by 62 countries, nuclear weapons are still a threat and some countries are gaining them. Russia’s stockpile of nuclear weapons has not been safeguarded. Other weapons of mass destruction are making their way into the hands of terrorists. 1 of 5 The World Today Section 4: Security in a Dangerous World Witness History Audio: Taking A Stand Note Taking Transparency 207

Terrorism Threatens Global Security Terrorism is a growing concern. Terrorist groups have committed acts of violence all over the world. Areas known for terrorist activity are Northern Ireland, the Basque region of Spain, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East, where Islamic Fundamentalists blame Israel and Western nations for their problems. Al Qaeda is one of the most active fundamentalist terrorist groups. 2 of 5 The World Today Section 4: Security in a Dangerous World Geography Interactive: World Distribution of Weapons of Mass Destruction

The War on Terrorism When the Taliban of Afghanistan refused to surrender Osama bin Laden and other al Qaeda leaders after the attacks in the U.S. on September 11, 2001, the U.S. attacked Afghanistan. After overthrowing the Taliban, the U.S. shifted its sights to Iraq, where President Bush was convinced there were hidden weapons of mass destruction. 3 of 5 The World Today Section 4: Security in a Dangerous World Witness History Video: The Taliban in Afghanistan QuickTake Section Quiz Progress Monitoring Transparency

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