When it comes to Islamic terrorism, Italy doesn’t seem to be having as many problems as other major European powers, despite its sizable Muslim population of over two million people (3.7% of Italian population), expansive borders that have been exposed by Muslim immigration, and boasting a major target for jihadists.

Italy has experienced issues with Islamic radicalism, but Italian authorities oftentimes act swiftly – such was the case with Maria Giulia Sergio, known as ‘Lady Jihad,’ who persuaded her family into joining the Islamic State. (Sergio’s family was apprehended by anti-terror police after monitoring their conversations).

The same vigilance was applied in the recent deportation of a Moroccan Imam named Mohammed Madad whose sermons have allegedly been taking on a more “radicalized, violent and anti-Western tone[.]” This Salafist was so radical he felt the need to call one of his daughters ‘Jihad.’ While the name ‘Jihad’ might catch the headlines, Italy’s decisiveness in its efforts to deport the radical preacher before he inspired the next jihadist attack should stand out – revealing a lot about Italian counterterrorism.

Edward N. Luttwak, Senior Associate at the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS), wrote an article in November of last year published by Nikkei Asian Review highlighting reasons why Italian counterterrorism has been effective. As already discussed vigilance is a priority. This requires not only acting quickly and thoroughly when radical signs emerge from individuals but also taking appropriate steps to quell the threat so time (around-the-clock surveillance) and resources can be applied to the most dangerous of suspects. Luttwak further explains:

The Italians… take action the moment the very first indication comes in. This is sometimes a phone or e-mail intercept, and sometimes a tip-off from an agent (Italy invests modestly but steadily in the foreigners it recruits). But more often it is a friend who reports someone for speaking of jihad, for swearing that he will kill for Hamas, join the Islamic State or do something else.

What follows is an expert interrogation. Many are soon sent home, classified as mere boasters if they turn meek. Those who are proud to be militant are held, and their records are minutely examined to find any criminal infraction for which they can be arrested, tried and imprisoned (unlike the French who treat militant petty thieves as petty thieves, not as militants). If any faults are found in the immigration paperwork, they are deported — even if they have become Italian citizens — a measure applied to several vehement imams (181 more imams are currently in prison).

One wonders with Italy’s border troubles how many deportees attempt to come back into the country and at what success rate? Regardless, Italy has thus far been able to successfully prevent major jihadist attacks such as the incidents in Paris, Brussels, and Nice – providing a valuable model for other European authorities. Will France and other countries take the advice? Let’s hope so.