December 9, 2005

Al-Qaeda to Hit Oil Facilities?

The release of Al-Qaeda video and audiotapes has become somewhat routine since 9/11 (thanks in large part to the group's media echo chamber, Al-Jazeera). So it's no surprise that a video featuring al-Qaeda's number two man--Ayman al-Zawahiri--didn't register much of a reaction when it was released this week. But one part of the tape warrants particular attention. Al-Zawahiri called for attacks on oil installations in Muslim nations, saying most of the oil revenues go to "the enemies of Islam." It's a threat al-Qaeda has made several times. And one that, if carried out properly, could have a devastating effect on the global economy due to skyrocketing gas prices. With a bitter winter already upon us, this would be a particularly horrific blow.

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