I make no argument regarding whether their actions are effective or not. Only suggesting what they might be thinking are the reasons they take these actions.

Honestly if they had blown up our planes... I'd say there is a real chance we blow up that shiny building where they planned that.

It's even possible we told them exactly that and this is why the plot didn't continue.

I kind of feel it compares to MAD. I don't think they want to provoke a war but if they signal they are not afraid to engage political, civilian or economical targets then one must consider how they engage with them and what their response will be.