Bin Laden Plotted New U.S. Attacks from the CFR

Bin Laden Plotted New U.S. Attacks

Documents retrieved by U.S, Special Forces from Osama bin Laden's compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, indicate he was planning fresh terrorist attacks (BBC) on the United States, including a plot targeting key rail and transportation infrastructure. Intelligence analysts are still combing through the data for additional clues on terrorism plans and the inner workings and whereabouts of the al-Qaeda leadership.

Analysts say the new evidence demonstrates that bin Laden (NYT) "wasn't just a figurehead," but remained actively involved in the operational preparations of future attacks. In reaction to the new findings, the Transportation Security Administration issued a warning to U.S. rail companies. Officials say the plot to attack rail infrastructure (FT) involved derailing a train over a bridge, and timing the attack to coincide with a major event. While DHS officials emphasized a raised level of vigilance regarding the information, they claim there is no indication of an "imminent threat."

Intelligence officials also said some of the bin Laden material indicated that al-Qaeda was particularly interested in targeting (CNN) Washington, New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. DHS Director Janet Napolitano said a "number of actions" have been taken, including "surging some resources" to U.S. ports, airports, and borders.

Analysis:

In Foreign Affairs, CFR's Richard Falkenrath writes that with bin Laden gone, life is about to become more complicated for U.S. policymakers trying to combat terrorism.

Bin Laden's killing has led to both elation and anger in Muslim countries around the world, raising questions about what his death means for Arab democracy and stability in Pakistan.

In the New York Times, Ali Soufan discusses the impact of bin Laden's death on the global jihadist movement.

This CFR issue guide provides background and analysis on the foreign policy implications of the death of Osama bin Laden.

Background:

Foreign Affairs offers a collection of articles on al-Qaeda and Osama bin Laden.

This CFR backgrounder on al-Qaeda offers historical insight into the international terrorist organization behind the September 11 attacks.

Multimedia:

See what CFR's Crisis Guide: Pakistan, recent winner of an Overseas Press Club award, has to say about the roots of Pakistan's challenges, what it means for the region and the world, and some plausible futures for the country.

This graphic from the Wall Street Journal provides an annotated diagram of bin Laden's compound.