The Aug. 5 bombing of the Marriott Hotel in Jakarta is a reminder that the threat of terrorist attacks here is real. The U.S. government believes that terrorists may be planning further attacks against U.S. interests, officials or facilities, and as security is tightened, could choose softer targets, such as places where foreigners congregate. Last October’s attack in Bali and the bombing of the Marriott Hotel fit this profile. Jemaah Islamiah, the terrorist organization responsible for both attacks, has links to al Qaeda. The U.S. State Department recommends deferring all non-essential travel to Indonesia.
