Media around the globe were already labelling the attack on pedestrians on Westminster Bridge and then later near the British Parliament that claimed the lives of five people, including that of the suspected attacker as an act of terrorism

After ploughing through innocent pedestrians on the bridge, the vehicle then crashed outside the gates of parliament. The man inside the car jumped out and ran through the gates, stabbing a police officer on the way.

The attacker was then shot by police and later died of his injuries. British police have yet to name the man.

During a news conference, authorities said they believe the man was “inspired by international terrorism”. And so, the dark spectre that is terrorism descends on Europe once again. 

No one immediately claimed responsibility, but most are already suspecting Islamic State, with a “lone wolf” assailant the most likely outcome.

The events of Thursday morning will again test the resolve of police, counter-terrorism forces and politicians as they try to wrestle with the prospect of yet another IS-inspired, small-scale attack, regarded as the most difficult to detect.

Large scale attacks are usually much easier to expose due to higher levels of ‘chatter’ amongst known terrorist groups over the internet or other forms of electronic communications, which are regularly monitored by spy agencies.

Lone-wolf attacks pose a much greater threat, particularly in larger, heavily populated cities such as London and Paris.

It’s worth remembering that despite the constant threat of terrorism in the West, there had been no successful terror attack in London since May 2013 – almost four years.

That, however, will be of no comfort to the families and loved ones of those killed or injured in Thursday’s attack.

Until authorities uncover the true motive behind the attack, it is important that people don’t jump to conclusions or – even worse – make ill-informed and emotionally-charged judgment calls.

The only true way to overcome terrorism is through unification.

All countries, races and religions must join together to stamp out this pervading evil once and for all.