US issues global travel alert vs al-Qaeda as 9/11's 10th anniv nears

As the 10th anniversary of the 9-11 attack nears, the United States on Saturday (Manila time) issued a worldwide travel alert against possible attacks by the al-Qaeda terrorist network. The US State Department said its September 2 alert against the "continued threat" by al-Qaeda and its allies applies to US citizens traveling and residing abroad. "While we have not identified any specific threats from al-Qa’ida affiliates and allies to attack the United States or our interests on the 9/11 anniversary, U.S. citizens should be aware that al-Qa’ida affiliates and allies have demonstrated the intent and capability to carry out attacks against the United States and our interests around the world," it said. It added that in the past, terrorist organizations "have on occasion planned their attacks to coincide with significant dates on the calendar." The US was shaken on Sept. 11, 2001 when terrorists from the al-Qaeda attacked US targets including the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. US citizens traveling and residing abroad were urged to enroll in the Smart Travelers Enrollment Program (STEP) at https://travelregistration.state.gov. On the other hand, the State Department said US citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the US Embassy or Consulate at their destination. "By enrolling, US citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency," it said. It added updated information on travel and security may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada. For callers outside the United States and Canada, they can call a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. — LBG, GMA News