The State Department issued a worldwide alert to US citizens travelling abroad yesterday, warning that al-Qaeda and its affiliates are planning terrorist attacks that may materialise before the end of August.
The US alert, valid till August 31, was particularly for its citizens in the Middle East and North Africa.
"Current information suggests that al-Qaeda and affiliated organisations 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 State Department said in a statement.
According to the alert, terrorists may select to use a variety of means and weapons and target both official and private interests.
More From This Section
US citizens are reminded of the potential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure.
"Terrorists have targeted and attacked subway and rail systems, as well as aviation and maritime services. US citizens should take every precaution to be aware of their surroundings and to adopt appropriate safety measures to protect themselves when travelling," it said.
The announcement was linked to an al-Qaeda plot against US diplomatic facilities in the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia, where Sunday is the beginning of the work week.
Britain and Germany have also said they will close their embassies in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, tomorrow and Monday.
US posts in Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Egypt, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar have put out messages informing the public that they will be closed on Sunday, which is a workday in many Muslim countries.