Despite the Saudi crackdowns on suspected militants, the latest attack by Al- Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) was an assassination attempt against the Assistant Interior Minister for Security Affairs.

Prince Mohammad bin Naif was only slightly injured by the suicide bomber however the security breach was HUGE. Arab News reports:

The king asked Prince Muhammad why was the terrorist allowed in without proper checks, to which the prince replied, “It was a mistake.”

Basically a known militant had indicated that he wanted to turn himself in and thus he was allowed to enter Prince Muhammad’s office without proper checking. AP reports the Prince said:

"I did not want him to be searched, but he surprised me by blowing himself up"

Saudi Arabia will no doubt tighten its security procedures; hopefully it will APPLY it’s procedures to all royal visitors, even if it seems disrespectful to distrust them. It would be good if civil liberties are not further violated in the expected crackdown.

Related posts:

1. Insulting Royalty- Saudi Arabia and Beyond
2. Growing Pains of Reform in Saudi Arabia
3. Religious Tolerance in Saudi Arabia

One of the side effects of the worsening global economy and unemployment is the increase in suicides and suicide attempts. The numbers of cases (high profile and of “normal people“) being reported has increased significantly.

Asian economies like South Korea, Japan and Hong Kong have all reported increases and are planning for more. South Korea and Japan are installing blockades for railway tracks so people do not jump in front of trains. Hong Kong has increased the numbers of operators for its suicide hotlines.

The US is also experiencing an increase in calls to suicide hotlines in places like New York,  Tampa, Dallas, Washington DC metro area and California. What is far more worrying is the increase in suicide attempts at universities like the University of California, Santa Barbara. Europe is not spared either with countries like Serbia reporting the highest suicide rates in Europe and 55% of the population shows signs of depression.

The global economy is going to get worse over the upcoming months. If anyone you know is showing signs of depression make sure they get help.

Related posts:

1. 2009 Gloom & Doom update: a spot of advice for 2009
2. 2009 Gloom & Doom Update: Protests in Ireland & Latvian Govt Collapse
3. 2009 Gloom & Doom Update: Protests in Germany and Bosnia