World Tribune — U.S. backing Palestinian Authority but still issues alert to American citizens

WASHINGTON — The United States, despite renewed pledges of aid to the Palestinian Authority, has warned of a security threat to Americans in the West Bank.

Officials said Fatah gunmen loyal to PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas were preparing to abduct Americans and other Western nationals in the West Bank, Middle East Newsline reported. They said the gunmen were monitoring Western diplomats and non-governmental organization staffers in the Ramallah area.

"There is information that Fatah or criminal elements aligned to Fatah plan to kidnap Western nationals," an official said. "Obviously, Americans are the preferred targets."

The U.S. warning came as the Bush administration approved $40 million to the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, now under Hamas control. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said the money would be allocated to the United Nations and NGOs that operate in the Gaza Strip, but could not guarantee that the funds would reach intended Palestinian recipients.

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"It's been some time since we had a presence in Gaza in any case," Ms. Rice said.

Several abduction attempts have been reported near an Israeli military checkpoint at the northern edge of Jerusalem, officials said. They said NGO staffers were targeted, but escaped their would-be abductors.

U.S. diplomats and other staffers were ordered not to drive vehicles that would indicate their affiliation. U.S. embassy and consulate staffers have usually been accompanied by armed guards during trips to the West Bank.

The State Department warned of the prospect of Palestinian hijackings and abductions of foreigners in the West Bank. The department said the Palestinians were motivated by money and political gain.

"Criminals weigh the benefits, goals, publicity, risk of failure, security and political response," the department said in a June 15 advisory.

Officials said Palestinians have increased attempts to hijack foreign vehicles and nationals north of Jerusalem near Ramallah. They said Fatah agents were operating near the Palestinian refugee camp at Kalandia.

"There has been a noticeable increase in vehicle hijacking attempts involving non-governmental organizations near the Kalandia Terminal, specifically near the Samir Amis Junction," the advisory said. "All are advised to practice increased vigilance while traveling in this area."

The State Department said Palestinian criminals and insurgents have completed preparations for the abduction of Westerners. The department said would-be hijackers have planned the area of attack, vehicles to target, escape routes as well as locations to conceal the hostages.

The department, through its Jerusalem Country Council, urged Americans to improve security, change routes and "establish unpredictable patterns in your life." The statement also warned Americans to conceal their nationality.

"Always avoid displaying U.S. affiliation," the statement said. "Develop plans of action to follow in the event of a threat. If you are being followed, know where to go."