Government says it's 'deeply concerned'
about security of Americans overseas
By Jon R. Anderson,
Stars and Stripes
The U.S. government issued a warning Wednesday saying officials are "deeply
concerned about the security of Americans overseas."
The State Department dispatch highlighted concern over the possibility of anthrax being
used as a biological weapon against U.S. citizens abroad.
"Currently, the method of delivery of anthrax has been by letter or package,"
reads the warning. "While the risk of such attacks is limited, it cannot be
excluded."
While falling short of identifying any specific threats, the warning said in the wake
of U.S. strikes against Afghanistan that there could be counterattacks virtually anywhere
in the world.
"There is a potential for strong anti-American sentiment and for retaliatory
actions to be taken against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world by terrorists
and those who harbor grievances against the United States," reads the warning.
Meanwhile, military installations around the world remain on high alert for terrorist
counterattacks.
"We are maintaining our vigilance and keeping good situational awareness,"
said U.S. European Command spokesman Air Force Lt. Col. Patrick Barnes. Barnes said that
he was not aware of any specific threats against U.S. forces in Europe.
With beefed-up security everywhere, however, military facilities in Europe are at
Threat Condition Charlie, the second highest defense posture.
The State Department also warned that there is "unconfirmed information that
terrorist actions may be taken against U.S. military facilities and/or establishments
frequented by U.S. military personnel in Korea and Japan."
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