Filtered By: Topstories
News

US issues worldwide travel alert after death of al Qaeda affiliate


The United States over the weekend issued a new worldwide travel alert to its nationals following the killing of a US-born affiliate of the Al-Qaeda terrorist network. In its October 1 travel alert, the US State Department warned of the potential of retaliation against US citizens after the death of Anwar al-Awlaki in Yemen. "The death of Awlaki, in the near term, could provide motivation for anti-American attacks worldwide from individuals or groups seeking to retaliate against US citizens or interests because of this action. In the past Awlaki and other members of AQPA have called for attacks against the United States, US citizens and US interests. Awlaki’s standing as a preeminent English-language advocate of violence could potentially trigger anti-American acts worldwide to avenge his death" it said. According to the travel alert that expires November 30, US and Yemeni officials on September 30 that Awlaki was killed in Yemen. Citing open-source information, it also said US citizen and AQAP propagandist Samir Khan was killed along with him. The State Department said Awlaki "played a key role in advancing AQAP plots targeting the United States." Amid this development, the State Department urged US citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). US citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the nearest US Embassy or consulate, it added. "By enrolling, US citizens make it easier for the embassy/consulates to contact them in case of emergency," it said. The State Department said up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, Monday through Friday (except US federal holidays). — LBG, GMA News

LOADING CONTENT