This is breaking news from Australia: at least two Islamic terrorists have taken hostages in a Lindt Café in Martin Place, Sydney. Twenty or more customers (some reports on social media go as high as forty, according to Vlad) are being held by the gunmen. Thirteen of them were forced to stand with their hands against the display window.

The black flag of jihad is also on display in that window.

The only demand that I have heard of so far is that the terrorists be granted a conversation with Prime Minister Tony Abbott, and that it be broadcast live on the radio.

Vlad just told me: “September: Martin Place was where Islamic terrorists planned to behead people.”

The likely outcome? The mujahideen will gin up the drama until they have maximum media attention. Then they will explain the reasons for their actions, using terms drawn from authoritative Islamic law. Then they will kill as many hostages as they can before they themselves are killed, possibly beheading some of the victims.

Australian authorities should keep this likely scenario in mind. Any demands other than those that raise the level of publicity will be bogus. Everything is designed to bring the spotlight to bear on the execution of the hostages, and then the martyrdom of the mujahideen.

Whether they are from the Islamic State or some other group, that is the only game they play.

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