[Kristine1975]

Are they reacting to terrorism? Or are they using terrorism as a pretext to expand their powers (or to achieve whatever goal they have)?

[appleflaxen]

You're asking whether it's sincere or not? Not sure. But the political support from the public that they need to have power is, i think, sincere because the public is legitimately afraid of all this "risk" they're exposed to.

[Esau]

"Or are they using terrorism as a pretext to expand their powers"

That is exactly what is happening.