US beefs up security in wake of Qaeda terror threat

The US has stepped up security at all its major airports and railway stations after issuing a global travel alert and ordering temporary closure of its 22 diplomatic missions in the wake of a "very specific" al-Qaeda terror threat emanating from the Arabian Peninsula.
President Barack Obama himself is keeping a close tab on the developments related to the threat.
National Security Advisor Susan Rice held a meeting of top US national security officers to review the potential terror threat coming from the Arabian Peninsula.
"The president has received frequent briefings over the last week on all aspects of the potential threat and our preparedness measures," according to a White House statement.

The President, early this week, had instructed his national security team to take all appropriate steps to protect the American people in light of the threats, the statement said.
"Given nature of the potential threat, throughout the week, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counter-terrorism Lisa Monaco has held regular meetings with relevant members of the inter-agency to ensure the US Government is taking those appropriate steps," the White House said.

Rice yesterday chaired a meeting with the Principals Committee to review the situation and follow-up actions.
On Friday, the State Department issued a worldwide travel alert and closed down 22 embassies and consulates on Sunday in view of the al Qaeda threat.

Congressman Peter King, chairman of the Sub-committee on Counter-terrorism and Intelligence, said the threat was very specific, but he did not divulge any details.
"We're not certain exactly where something might happen but it's very specific as to when and it's also very specific as to the fact that it is going to happen, so we have to be on alert everywhere," King told a news channel.
In view of the terrorist threat, the Department of Homeland Security had yesterday increased security measures at airports, train stations and other transportation hubs. It expanded scrutiny of visitors coming into the US.

According to an official from the Department of Homeland Security, such measures are being taken out of an abundance of caution.