Security forces discuss Al Qaeda threat

The heads of the security forces in Malta agreed today to increase security at the airport and maritime harbours and to take greater security measures. The decision was taken at a meeting they held this evening to discuss an international warning from Interpol on al-Qaida. The meeting was led by Home Affairs Minister Manuel Mallia. Interpol has issued a global security alert in connection with suspected al-Qaida involvement in several recent prison escapes including those in Iraq, Libya and Pakistan. Intercepted intelligence foreshadowing an attack on US or Western interests is evidence of one of the gravest threats to the United States since the September 11 attacks, according to politicians. The US has closed diplomatic posts in 19 cities in the Muslim world at least until the end of this week.