Ya'alon: Europe must increase anti-terror laws
In the wake of terrorist attacks in Paris that killed 129 people, Israel's defense minister urges European lawmakers to pass legislation that would allow countries to battle terrorism more effectively.
Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon on Sunday appealed to Europe to pass laws that would "enable a more effective battle against terrorism," in response to Friday's attacks in Paris that killed 129 people.
"The Europeans understand that there is a threat, but they have not taken the measures they could have – for example changing the legislation to allow listening in on potential terrorists," Ya'alon told Army Radio.
"The balance between security and human rights in Europe has so far tipped in favor of human rights, but there is no longer a choice," he continued.
"From now on the balance must be weighted on the side of security in order to defend democracy."
Among the other measures suggested by the defense minister were increased passport control throughout Europe and checks at the entrances to public places.
Ya'alon also highlighted the necessity of "bridging the gap in Turkey," alluding to the passageway through the country used by European jihadists who train in Islamic State and Al-Nusra Front camps before returning to Europe. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the terrorist attacks in Paris.
"We are all in the same boat when it comes to the fight against terrorism and the defense of Western civilization," Ya'alon added.
On Saturday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered to share intelligence with France in the battle against terrorism.
The various branches of the Israeli security services, including the Mossad (external) and the Shin Bet (internal), are considered among the most effective in the world.
France and Israel have in the past cooperated closely on matters of security, intelligence and anti-terrorism.
