(AFP File Photo)
The US Embassy in Cairo warned citizens on Monday of a possible terrorist attack threat against American schools in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Maadi, in Egypt’s capital, Cairo.
The embassy cited “a recent anonymous posting on a Jihadist website” encouraging attacks against western schools and teachers.
The statement, posted on the embassy’s website and sent to US citizens in the region, noted that “the Embassy is unaware of any specific, credible threat against any American school or individual in Egypt”.
However, the statement continues: “The Embassy is working with local schools identified with the United States or that have high concentrations of American teachers or students to review and enhance their security posture.”
It also warned US citizens in the region to “remain vigilant regarding their personal security and alert to local security developments”.
Although the threat to American and other western schools was not linked to a specific militant group or organisation, Al-Qaeda has frequently called for the kidnapping of Americans in Egypt. Members of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Sham (ISIS) have also encouraged followers abroad to strike against Western targets.
The US State Department has, since the 25 January Revolution, warned citizens of ongoing political protests that may create dangerous situations for American citizens.
“Demonstrations have led to frequent violent clashes between police and protesters, resulting in deaths, injuries, and property damage,” the website reads. “Peaceful demonstrators and bystanders may be subject to questioning, detention, arrest, and conviction for participating in or being in proximity to unauthorized demonstrations.”
