ABU DHABI ø The United States has warned its nationals to be on
alert for a major attack in the Middle East.
The State Department has issued an announcement that warned of an
attack on civilian passenger jets in the Middle East. The announcement said
Al Qaida-aligned groups could be planning strikes against U.S. interests in
the region.
"Credible information has indicated terrorist groups may be planning
attacks against U.S. interests in the Middle East," the department said Friday.
"Terrorist actions may include suicide operations, bombings, hijackings or
kidnappings. These attacks may involve aviation, ground transportation and
maritime interests. While conventional weapons such as explosive devices are
a more immediate threat in many areas, use of non-conventional weapons,
including chemical or biological agents must be considered a possible
threat."
This was the first U.S. warning to citizens in the Middle East since
Nov. 6, 2003 and included the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, the Arabian Peninsula
and North Africa. The department pointed to an increase in security around
U.S. military and diplomatic installations, which could result in the
targeting of
civilian sites.
"Increased security at official U.S. facilities has led terrorists and
their sympathizers to seek softer targets such as public transportation,
residential areas, and public areas where people congregate," the statement
said.
The statement said U.S. nationals in the Middle East and North Africa
face anti-American sentiment as well as the risk of attack. The department
urged Americans to maintain a high level of vigilance and increase their
security awareness.
On Saturday, U.S. Central Command chief Gen. John Abizaid held talks in
Sanaa with Yemeni leaders. The talks were said to have focused on military
and
security cooperation.
