Of course, we have heard threats before, and nothing happened. [1] Muslims were warned to leave New York, Washington, and Los Angeles in November; can they come back yet?

Maybe only until February: [2] MEMRI says that "the London-based Arabic daily Al-Quds Al-Arabi reported that 'information sources close to Al-Qa'ida said that the organization, headed by Osama bin Laden, is gearing up for a big operation to coincide with Eid Al-Adha [February 2, 2004].' [Eid Al-Adha is a major Muslim holy day celebrated on the tenth day of Dhul Hijjah, the month of the Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca.]

"The information coordinator for the Sahab Institute, which is associated with Al-Qa'ida, said that a new videotape of bin Laden will be circulated shortly before the holiday. He added in an interview with the Internet site Al-Anbaa [The News] that the videotape will surface in conjunction with 'a great event that will shake the region.' He refused to confirm or deny that he was in possession of a pre-taped videotape of bin Laden, and stated only that: 'When the event occurs it will be broadcast by Al-Jazeera television.'" I'm sure it will.