Why would terrorists need any excuse -- even a silly one like this obscure video -- to kill us? And why are we all of a sudden more vulnerable?

Largely because we keep apologizing for freedom of speech. By doing so, we embolden these fanatics while framing terrorist attacks almost as if we were asking for it.

CNN:

After days of protests and related violence, concerns are growing that furor over an anti-Islam video could intensify even more Friday -- threatening U.S. interests abroad and at home.

People have taken to the streets in 10 nations and the Indian-controlled region of Kashmir, according to U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, railing against "Innocence of Muslims" and the nation where it was produced, the United States. This outrage, and danger to Americans, could worsen in the coming days, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and FBI warned Thursday in a joint intelligence bulletin.

"The risk of violence could increase both at home and abroad as the film continues to gain attention," the U.S. agencies said. "Additionally, we judge that violent extremist groups in the United States could exploit anger over the film to advance their recruitment efforts."

Worries about Friday, in particular, stem from the fact Muslims hold weekly prayers that day -- and may congregate afterward and march on U.S. diplomatic missions.

"We are in a full-court press at every single one of the posts in the Middle East and anywhere else there is any chance of demonstrations after Friday services to make sure nothing bad happens. And to have the security in place in case bad things do happen," one senior U.S. official said.

It's up to the host government to protect our diplomats and if they are in sympathy with the protestors, we're just out of luck.

But the threat to the US as a result of the riots in the Middle East should not be underestimated - especially "lone wolf" attacks that may occur. "Sudden Jihad Syndrome" has broken out over far less and being vigilant at this time would seem to be the prudent thing to do.