The United States issued a global alert to US citizens warning of potential terrorist attacks, including those using biological and chemical weapons, in reprisal for the just-begun war against Iraq. The State Department said it issued the warning to advise “Americans of an increased potential for anti-American violence, including terrorist actions against US citizens, as a result of the military action in Iraq.” It said US citizens should be aware that it “it is more important than ever to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness.” “As a result of military action in Iraq, there is a potential for retaliatory actions to be taken against US citizens and interests throughout the world,” it said in a statement. “Public demonstrations carry the potential for precipitating violence directed at American citizens, symbols associated with the United States or other US and western interests,” the department said. Full Story