Serious Terrorist Threat Prompts Embassy Closures
SANAA, Yemen (CBSDFW.COM/AP) — The most specific, credible threat information the country has seen in years has prompted the U.S. government to close 22 embassies and consulates Sunday. The closed embassies will remain closed though out the week.
Security forces have closed roads, put up extra blast walls and increased patrols near the U.S. diplomatic missions in the Muslim world that Washington has ordered closed following serious warnings of a possible al Qaeda attack.
The closures came with a call for Americans abroad to take extra precautions throughout August, particularly when using planes, trains and boats.
In recent days, U.S. officials have said they have received significant and detailed intelligence suggesting a possible attack, with some clues pointing to the al Qaeda terror network. The State Department said the potential for terrorism was particularly acute in the Middle East and North Africa, with a possible attack occurring on or coming from the Arabian Peninsula.
Texas Representative Michael McCaul told CBS' "Face The Nation" host Bob Schieffer that the terror threats regarding the Arabian Peninsula are "the most specific" since 9/11.
"The al Qaeda faction still talks about hitting the west and hitting the homeland," said House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-TX).
The State Department says some of the missions might remain closed beyond today. The threat has prompted the U.S. to issue a global travel alert to all Americans for the first time since the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks.
Click here for more information from CBS News senior correspondent John Miller.
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