UK: Britain is Al-Qaida's top targetPrint
World
Written by Chris Perver  
Thursday, 19 October 2006 00:00

UK security experts have revealed that Britain has become Al-Qaida's number one target, and warned that the terrorist organization has become more organized. Counter-terrorism officers have stated that the UK's close links with Pakistan have made it easier for terrorists to plan an attack in the country. Just a few months ago US and UK intelligence agents foiled a plot to blow up several airliners destined for the United States.

Quote: ""They viewed 7/7 as just the beginning," one unnamed senior source was quoted as telling the newspaper, referring to the July 7, 2005 suicide bombings on London's transport system. "Al Qaeda sees the UK as a massive opportunity to cause loss of life and embarrassment to the authorities." A second anonymous source agreed: "Britain is sitting at the receiving end of an al Qaeda campaign."

This news comes as tensions are increasing in the UK between Muslims and other groups over the displaying of religious symbols. Just a few weeks ago, an employee of British Airways was told to remove a small crucifix she wore around her neck, while British Airways permit the wearing of the Hijab, and British Midlands even enforce all female flight attendants - regardless of religious persuasion, to wear a full Islamic veil when travelling to Saudi Arabia. Home Secretary Jack Straw came under intense criticism recently, when he said he asks Muslim women to remove their veils before speaking to them in his office. An Islamic school in Britain, which has been forced by the government to accept some non-Islamic pupils, enforces all pupils to wear headscarves. And a teacher was also recently suspended for refusing to remove her veil while teaching children in class. So much for "multicultural Britain". British society seems to be becoming more intolerant of any form of religion whether Islamic or Christian, and if this trend continues, it looks like we will be facing yet more attacks similar to the July 7th bombings.

Source Reuters, BBC, Daily Mail, BBC

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