[SCR1]

Let's assume for a second that AQ has aquired a nuclear device. What if they decided to detonate the device not on a city but some secluded location, merely as a demonstration, and a with a warning that they have more and must meet a list of demands. Sounds goofy, aka TRUE LIES, but can anyone guess the economic impact on your country?

[SCR1]

your = our

[Domestic Church]

I don't think AQ would waste a nuke that way but they might pick a bad location due to disinfo etc.

[milkncookies]

Your point is well taken. However, I don't think they have to detonate one, or even have one in order to achieve some magnitude of success. Their stated intentions coupled with their past actions, and our perceptions and responses to those intentions and actions, are in fact achieving a slow and deleterious effect on our economy. While it may not currently be obvious to most, there have been counter effects already to our economy and they will continue to worsen as long as the relentless and credible AQ threats continue. So whether they ever actually do successfully complete an attack or not, they are achieving some degree of success.