Washington, D.C.
December 12, 1999

Reuters, as well as other large media agencies reported that the United States had issued a warning to its citizens regarding an increased chance of terrorist activity during Ramadan. Reuters reported, "Secretary of State Madeleine Albright warned Americans abroad to be vigilant for potential terrorist attacks over the New Year's period. Albright's comments came one day after the State Department issued an advisory for Americans overseas from the start of teh New Year and the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan." Though the Christian and Jewish holidays also coincide with the millennium andthere has been speculation on the possibilities of violence over the ready volatile peace process in Palestine, no such warnings were issued in regards to Christian fundamentalist groups or Jewish extremists. Ramadan is the month in which Muslims are commanded to abstain from food and drink and devote both day and night to worship and increase in good works.