Al Qaeda May Leverage Global Wars Involving US Support: Counter-Terrorism Unit

Al Qaeda May Exploit Global Conflicts With US Involvement: Counter-Terrorism Unit

The terrorist attacks orchestrated by al Qaeda on September 11, 2001, in New York and Washington claimed the lives of approximately 3,000 individuals.

On Friday, the US National Counterterrorism Center issued a warning that recent appeals by al Qaeda for attacks against the United States demonstrate the organization's persistent threat to American security.

According to the memo distributed to law enforcement agencies, "Al Qaeda and its Yemen-based branch, al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP), are probably attempting to utilize their media publications and ongoing global conflicts, especially those involving US military participation or support, to motivate potential attackers."

The advisory urged government personnel to exercise caution by avoiding surveillance, refraining from publicly sharing travel itineraries, schedules, and locations, and removing identification badges outside of work environments.

The memo additionally highlighted potential threats to venues that attract large gatherings, such as sporting events and concerts, recommending increased law enforcement presence at these locations alongside pre-event security briefings.

The US government classifies al Qaeda as a "foreign terrorist organization." The devastating September 11, 2001, attacks perpetrated by al Qaeda in New York and Washington resulted in nearly 3,000 fatalities.

A report released by the US Department of Homeland Security late last year, which assessed various threats facing the United States, stated that al Qaeda remains determined to strike American targets and has "reinvigorated its outreach" toward Western audiences.

Established in 2004, the NCTC operates under the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. The center stated that the information being shared with law enforcement agencies will provide them with essential tools to counter targeting attempts by al Qaeda.