Former FBI director Louis Freeh noted this regarding the American perception of terrorism before the terrible events of September 11, 2001. Many Americans and government officials did not view terrorism with the same urgency or level of attention prior to that fateful day.

Freeh's remark demonstrates how national attitudes and policies have changed in response to terrorist threats. Acts of terror were frequently viewed as isolated incidents prior to 9/11 rather than as a component of a broader threat landscape. Policymakers found it challenging to effectively allocate resources towards counterterrorism measures because of this perception.

Think of the country's pre-9/11 awareness of terrorism as a dormant fire alarm in an old building. Although the alarm existed and was capable of identifying danger, neither the building's occupants nor the safety procedures fully incorporated it. It took a devastating fire to make everyone realize how important it was to properly address the possible threat.

From 1993 to 2001, Louis Freeh, the FBI's director, had a distinguished career with the agency. He was well-known for his work on well-known cases and his attempts to improve ties between law enforcement organizations around the world. His assessment of attitudes prior to September 11th is indicative of broader shifts in how countries view and react to threats that have the potential to impact international security.

In conclusion, Freeh's observation highlights the significant shift in government attention and public awareness regarding terrorism following September 11th, demonstrating how a significant event can alter viewpoints on important issues.