I know that Israel has long taken extraordinary steps to protect its diplomatic missions from terrorists.  In my opinion, based on what I have seen, read, and deduced from conversations, these measures far exceed what the US and other countries do.  Also, in my opinion the Israelis are justified in their actions for obvious reasons.

Now, what is the Israel consular workload compared to the US?  I doubt it comes close to the US average, which is comprised mainly of non-immigrant visa seekers in most locations (even though new policies have cut down on lines and waiting times at the consulates).

As for protection from the people nearby you, do you really want a violent person next to you when he is denied a loan, fails a driving test, loses at the racetrack and so on? What makes consulates so special?

No, I don't want violent persons near by, if I can help it.  Ever been in a bank being robbed?  Not a healthy place to be.  US consulates, as symbols of the US Government, are more likely to be targets of violent acts by various groups abroad than non-political institutions.  US diplomatic facilities are not in general places most people would like to work if they carefully considered the risks and vulnerabilities. Some visa seekers apparently think they have the right to a US entry visa or some other benefit and when denied they go berserk.  Not often, but with sufficient frequency that extra security measures are seen as prudent. However, the primary reason for consulate security has long been terrorist attacks. The 9/11 events and the Bush administration added few additional requirements.  Most were already in place, by the way. There had already been enough attacks or attempts to warrant the added security.
 

I can swear there ain't no heaven but I pray there ain't no hell. _ Blood Sweat & Tears