US Issues Worldwide Travel Warning

Fears of possible terrorist attacks in Mideast and North Africa

The U.S. State Department issued a new worldwide travel alert today warning citizens of potential terror attacks in the Middle East and North Africa by al-Qaeda and its affiliates.

"Current information suggests that al-Qaeda and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks both in the region and beyond, and that they may focus efforts to conduct attacks in the period between now and the end of August," the department said. The attacks are seen as occurring in or emanating from the Arabian peninsula, according to the statement, and "may involve public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure."