DAR AL HARB/ISLAM - U.S.A.: "LARGE OPERATION IN AMERICA, ALLAH WILLING"

Al Qaida site: 'Large Operation in America, God Willing'

An Al Qaida Internet site reported last week that terrorists are planning a major attack in the United States in the coming weeks.

The Jan. 12 posting titled “A Large Operation in America, God Willing,” stated that the upcoming attack was imminent. Other participants chastised the writer for tipping Al Qaida’s hand.

Counterterrorism analysts said the threat could be real or Al Qaida deception designed to test U.S. security by announcing an planned attack and observing the level of increased security.

For those seeking more information, the author of the posting said they should be patient but assured forum members that “the lions have taken off and you will see [the proof] in the coming weeks.”

“We ask God to guide the aim of the jihadists and to grant them success in the revenge campaign for Abu-Musab al-Zarqawi,” the message said.

Another discussant expressed doubts about the claim, noting that “to my knowledge, Al Qaida does not announce about any operation before it takes place. We are hopeful that the news from our brother (the poster) is true and that God will guide the aim of the mujahidin, grant them victory, and heal the (wounded) hearts of the believers."
...

“It is not wise or deceitful to announce something before it takes place, because I fear that you will commit two dangerous mistakes:

1. Foiling the operation before it takes place as a result of the enemy's knowledge after your announcement.

2. I am concerned that you might be deceitful with this hasty announcement. God is all-wise and all-knowing. Please accept this advice from a brother who loves you for the sake of God."

In responding to doubts from forum members, the author stated that “the hint was given only to ensure that the matter does not get attributed to others when it occurs.”

“Should they succeed, you will hear news that will make your hearts jump with delight,” the message said, requesting that supporters publish “evidence” from Muslim scholars showing that “it is permissible to use weapons of mass destruction against the infidels, and to use human shields."

The posting included a religious edict from May 2003 written by Saudi cleric Nasir Hamad al-Fahd on the validity of using weapons of mass destruction against the infidels as well as human shields.



Pertinent Links:

1) Al Qaida site: 'Large Operation in America, God Willing'