Al-Qaeda affiliate threatens attacks on airlines and prominent figures

Al-Qaeda affiliate threatens attacks on airlines and prominent figures



(NewsNation) – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is monitoring a potential terrorist threat against the United States from an affiliate of al-Qaeda known as AQAP.

The group has posted alarming videos online calling for attacks on U.S. airlines, celebrities and iconic locations.

AQAP, identified as al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, released videos this week calling for terrorist actions on global flights, in Times Square and in the New York subway. The content includes specific calls for attacks on Jewish and Western targets, with particular emphasis on American, British and French airlines.

Prominent personalities such as Bill Gates, Elon Musk and the former chairman of the US Federal Reserve, Ben Shalom Bernacchi, are mentioned as potential targets.

These threats are accompanied by a carefully produced instructional video with depictions of exploding aircraft and detailed bomb-making instructions. The video also offers tips on how to bypass airport security measures and board flights unnoticed.

In response to these threats, the TSA issued a statement acknowledging that it was aware of the AQAP communication. The agency emphasized its commitment to the ongoing safety of transportation, stating:

TSA is aware of the latest AQAP notice and the ongoing threats to transportation in light of world events. We are not aware of any credible threats resulting from this video.

Foreign terrorist organizations regularly highlight transportation during the holidays. As always, the TSA operates with a high level of security and constant vigilance.

TSA takes a risk-based, intelligence-based approach that includes multiple layers of security, both visible and invisible. TSA and DHS are in close and ongoing contact with all of our partners and will continue to monitor the situation and adjust security measures as necessary.

We all play a role in keeping our communities safe and the public is encouraged to remain vigilant, report signs of suspicious behavior and remember: “See Something, Say Something.”

To the background:

· TSA continues to utilize the latest technologies to support our security mission, such as: B. Computed tomography scanners and credential authentication technology.

· We also utilize multiple layers of security beyond the checkpoint, such as screening travelers, deploying explosive-sniffing dogs, deploying Federal Air Marshals, and screening 100 percent of cargo, among others.

Full TSA declaration

The TSA highlighted increased security measures during the holiday season and assured the public to exercise a high level of vigilance. The agency is also working closely with the Department of Homeland Security to address the situation.

That’s how New York City is Increasing security for New Year’s Eve celebrations given recent pro-Palestinian demonstrations and federal concerns about possible terrorist attacks.

New York Police Department officers secured the streets Friday in Times Square.

Mayor Eric Adams said visitors would see NYPD officers in the expected crowd of millions. The FBI and Department of Homeland Security will also help with the increased security presence and warn of an increased risk of terrorist attacks around public gatherings as the ball drop approaches.

NewsNation’s Laura Ingle contributed to this report.



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