US issues travel warning after Bin Laden death

A global travel warning for Americans has been issued in the wake of the killing of Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden.
 
The US Department of Homeland Security expects “threats of retaliation” from al Qaeda in the aftermath bin Laden’s death.
 
“We certainly anticipate threats of retaliation – this is an organization that declared war on the United States more than a decade ago – threats from al Qaeda are not a new phenomenon,” an official said.
 
The development comes as the UK and US put foreign embassies on high alert.
 
The US State Department’s worldwide travel warning said: “Given the uncertainty and volatility of the current situation, U.S. citizens in areas where recent events could cause anti-American violence are strongly urged to limit their travel outside of their homes and hotels and avoid mass gatherings and demonstrations.
 
“US citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.”
 
It was issued shortly after President Barack Obama announced in the early hours of this morning that the terrorist leader had been killed in Pakistan.
 
The Homeland Security official told CNN that the agency remains “at a heightened state of vigilance,” although the national terror-threat level was not immediately raised following bin Laden’s death.
 
Foreign secretary William Hague ordered British embassies to review security, saying this is usual procedure in such situations.
 
The precautions come as the US and Western allies prepare for potential retaliatory attacks in the aftermath of bin Laden’s death.
 
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey said it was increasing police presence at all of its facilities, including the site where the World Trade Centre once stood.