U.S. proposes security role for Kurds in northern Iraq
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SPECIAL TO WORLD TRIBUNE.COM
Friday, April 13, 2007
U.S. WARNS AMERICANS IN MOROCCO
CAIRO — The State Department has warned Americans of the prospect of
continued insurgency attacks in Morocco.
The U.S. consulate in Casablanca said in a warden message that Americans
in Morocco could come under attack. The April 10 message cited a clash
between police and Al Qaida insurgents in Casablanca in which four would-be
suicide bombers were killed.
"The potential for violence against American interests and citizens and
other Western targets remains high in Morocco and the consulate general
encourages Americans in Morocco to remain vigilant regarding their personal
security," the warden message said.
The warning was issued as Morocco has been searching for 10 additional
would-be Al Qaida suicide bombers. Officials said the suspects were part of
a more than 30-member network that has targeted Western interests and
strategic facilities throughout Morocco. They said authorities have
identified five insurgency groups in the kingdom.
On Thursday, Moroccan police detained two suspected Al Qaida operatives
in Casablanca. Police said one of the suspects, who had entered a home and
threatened to blow himself unless he was fed, had been carrying explosives.
The U.S. consulate said it has suspended services in Casablanca since
the April 10 clash between Al Qaida and police. The consulate said the
suspension was temporary, but did not say when services would resume.
Moroccan authorities were continuing to disrupt insurgency groups that
sought to attack U.S.- or Western-affiliated targets, the U.S. consulate
said. The statement said the United States expected additional arrests of
those associated with "international terrorist groups."
"Establishments which are readily identifiable with the United States
are potential targets for attacks," the warden message said. "These may
include facilities where U.S. citizens and other foreigners congregate,
including clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, hotels, movie
theaters and other public areas."
The consulate, advising Americans to report suspicious incidents to U.S.
and Moroccan authorities, also warned against frequented places that could
offend Muslim sensitivities. They included casinos or places where alcoholic
beverages were sold or consumed.
"While in Morocco, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and
maintain a low profile," the statement said. "All U.S. citizens are urged to
consider seriously their personal security and to take those measures they
deem appropriate to ensure their well-being."
Copyright © 2007 East West
Services, Inc.
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