Hey Alan,
Your analysis is top-shelf. Using your logic we should also be suspicious of the Tanzanian and Hungarian acrobats that were performing at the City of London Festival on July 7, 2005. Because they wear tights and were in London during the time of the 7/7 bombings means that they must somehow be connected to the slaughter of British citizens. I say that all acrobats, especially ones with British or American training, be placed under house arrest until you, Alan, personally interrogate each one of them. Meanwhile, I would like to extend an invitation to all Al-Qaeda operators to meet at your home in Glasgow to dine on pork sausage and watch Erasure videos. After interrogating the acrobats and dining with AQ terrorists, maybe you can get back to us on who the real culprits are.

Chris, Arlington, Virginia USA

what makes me sick is that the tax payer will be keeping these terrorists in the lap of luxury,or until blair decides to let them out with compensation,because of their human rights.
take them out and hang them from the nearest lampost.
send back the remainder.the government know who they are.
or give the sas a free rein.

kevin, liverpool.,

Martin, Berlin, Germany - You're right, we've all seen when America does something. Lucky for you, you wrote that in English. How quickly you forget.

Andy, Houston, Texas

To Martin, yes we have seen what happens what America does something. I see you are writing your messages in English, not German, Italian or Japanese.

Mark, Hawthorne, California

NOT CYNICAL KAREN, CLOSE TO THE TRUTH... There are 7000 military personnel operating off the west coast of Scotland for the next 2 weeks, USA included, the last time there was a terrorist attack in the UK Terrorist drills where going on in London 7/7 the same day.... And before that on 9/11 in the USA, Norad had drills same day.... anyone see a patern here????

Not to seem a bit selfish Karen, but hope it's Edinburgh cos I'm in Glasgow......

we are possibly being ethnicly cleansed by our own governments.... WATCH THIS SPACE.

Alan, Glasgow,

Lame Cherry...please check your facts an normal bomb with plutonium in it will not cause murder on a disastrous scale...it will cause panic because people it is the same as a nuclear explosion when in fact it is a bomb that will spray plutonium over a limited area.

And speaking as an Englishman the last thing I am going to do is demand that American does something. We have all seen what happens when America does something...things take a turn for the worse.

M

Martin, Berlin, Germany

The biggest threat to any people is the cabal of corrupt psychopaths who govern them.

Bill Jones, Stroudsburg, US

The report seems credible given 9/11, 7/7, Bali, ...

Yes, in my view, we are making errors but that does not mean that we are not dealing with a resurgent Islam that offers us infidels three posibilites; conversion to Islam, dhimminitude or death.

Until we are certain, the West and Christendom should take the line that defence is the best form of attack.

Osborne, Hastings, England

The solution to radical Islam has got to come from within the religion. When the cost of this radical behaviour is high enough, the counter-balance to radical Islam, namely dictator-style Islamic governments, has traditionally stopped the rot. This was the case with Saddam Hussein in Iraq, Mahatir Mohammad in Malaysia (a democratic type dictatorship) and Suharto in Indonesia. Their response to separists and radicals was to be ruthless.

Could the West learn something from this iron-fisted approach, after all, that is how Islam has managed its own extremests? Of course, we know better don't we? Our Western legal systems, together with their socialist tendencies and high hurdle "onus of proof" requirements, can only lead to soft responses. Further, jails are now breeding grounds for extremests who convert hard-core criminals.

Are democracies really the best way to tackle radical Islam? Seems as if radical Islam has flourished in these above countries since they became democratic.

Craig, Sydney, Australia

Some day, when the hornets nest has been burned, peace will come again to the world. Unfortunately, some people actually believe it.

bruce, san diego, US

The logic of blaming the victims for being attacked simply baffles me. Thinking that the US, the UK or the "west" is at fault for being targeted by al-qaeda is the same warped line of thought that blames rape victims for being sexually assaulted.

Yes, aspects of US policy make many Europeans and Middle Easterners angry. European and Middle Eastern policies also anger Americans. However, the difference is that Americans don't hijack planes or blow up buildings to express their frustrations. We're all entitled to our own world view but we're all equally charged with expressing it sensibly.

It is my sincere hope that the UK is not subjected to an al-qaeda attack, but if it is, I hope with eqaul conviction that Britons blame neither themselves, their elected leaders nor the Americans. The blame for any al-qaeda attack lies squarely with al-qaeda and its followers.

Richard, Wilmington, NC, USA

"Spy chiefs warn that one operative had said he was planning an attack on “a par with Hiroshima and Nagasaki” in an attempt to “shake the Roman throne”, a reference to the West."

Thus starts the artice. So this is planted by the CIA.
I hope they are not planning another 9/11 or worse, making it look like "Iran did it" to get the masses to approve of an attack on that country.

L.Langeweg, Amsterdam,

Militancy is a by-product of the Wests' policies in the 'Islamic" world. After the demise of the Ottoman Empire/Caliphate (NOTE: the West does not have a monopoly on Imperial baggage!), for the sake of a steady supply of oil, the US and the West has supported completely undemocratic regimes in Saudi Arabia, Eygpt and other countries. We talk loudly to the frustrated masses how we wish to see democracy flourish, while at the same time prop up their greedy leaders. The gross contradiction of this corrupt situation and no even-handedness in Palestine, has provided militants an opportunity to present themselves as the "peoples' " alternative. Despite our "democratic" intentions but we have reaped this reward by pushing the boundaries of how long this contradiction could persist. We fed a new and growing Islamism, which could have been avoided with greater foresight and less greed. Democracy will now bring the reality of Islamic governments.It will take time for a secular balance again.

David, Manila, Philippines

Crazy as it seems, these people have the committment and belief to plan full scale attacks to that of the amotic bomb in 1945. The scary thing is when,where and who will it affect. The implimentation of the Iraq war has created a new agenda on terrorism compared with 9/11. Maybe Western Power should leave the Middle East to show how backwards these people are with there religions.

Those who claim to know the truth are those that are the most dangerous.
Religion causes everything i.e. a false sense of mind and commmittment.
In my opinion, if there was no religion we would have evolved mentally overtime.

Gianluca, Liverpool, UK

Prophet of Doom by Craig Winn...........good read to understand whats happening.

Joe Wray, Bayfield , CO / US

The long and the short of it is that individuals who support this route against the 'West' are thrilled to see the coverage and comments contained herein. In honesty if the Israel issue is ever solved these individuals will still wish to conduct a jihad. Indiiduals who assume that this situation is new forget that during the Era that America was isolationist ( The 30's) that the Islamic brotherhood were seeking change in Egypt. This had nothing to do with The UK or USA.

The wahabis the cult islamic group based in Saudi Arabia (The Cradle of islam) love this media attention and are happy to spread this via media and University campus based Islamic societies. They have endless funds. They fund Terrorism and media coverage to aid their cause. Their agents generally try to appear moderate and approacable the truth is different.

Lets be frank the death of muslims may create bleeding hearts but the this religion ignores it's own on disastourous scale in Africa. Nice 'Brother's'

Steve Neil, London, UK

Any indiscriminate violence against innocent civilians whether Christian,Muslim etc is totally unjustified.People cannot help where they are born,political and religious leaders must take any or all of the blame as they are the ones who decide who goes to war and against whom.If these people were doing there jobs properly they would be working together to find solutions to the causes of war and not fuelling the fire.We all breath the same air and live under the same roof.It,s about time those people in charge started to help us and the planet instead of slowly destroying things.

John, Glasgow,

all this has only left us trading rights for alleged security ... when will we learn ...? if this happens and marshall law is declared take heed ... 911 free fall of 3 bldgs is not believable ... period ... read the polls ... wake up !!!

jack, canada,

We hear statements of muslim radicals representing only a tiny proportion of the muslim world at large and of the damage they are doing to non-radical muslims' western existences. Further, we hear commentary on both sides as to whether muslim and non-muslim societies can actually co-exist. One simple question : surely the non-radical muslim world should be turning on the radicals to not only protect the religion as they actually see it but also to protect their own western existences ? oh, and it might also help the non-muslim world with this one as well.........

Alasdair, london,

ID card schemes, gun registration, and even survaillence by video cameras cannot prevent terrorists. These planned measures are mostly a gross waste of money which will only benefit the businesses which get the job to impliment them. In Canada, our gun-registration program has cost many millions of dollars and has been a total failure. The use of video survaillance did not prevent the terrorist attack in London. The heavily funded US intelligence gathering agencies did not not prevent 9/11. And what good has come out of the defeat of Saddam Hussein's Iraq? Have any of these activities helped anyone, except the various corporations that profit from war and conflict? I doubt that the proposed solutions will do any good - instead, they will only give more power to those who already have it - at the expense of our liberties - a return to feudalism.

Peter Riedel, Thorold, Canada

I estimate it will happen on May 1st, possibly in Edinburgh or glasgow - just in time for the Scottish elections to try to frighten Scots into voting for the unionist parties. Cynical?

karen, Aberdeen,

As for the woman who said "tell them Mecca woud be destroyed if any attack was launched on NY or London", would she have bombed Rome during the time of the IRA attacks? Just as the IRA had to use SOMETHING to get their message across and draw attention to the bigotry and hatred they experienced, how do they expect the downtrodden of Chechnya, Palestine, Afghanistan etc. to change their circumstances when many continue to crush them. Moorish culture gave free schools, hospitals and sanitation to Spain and other parts of Southern Europe cneturies before England and Northern Europe. It was the Crusades that began this process of demonisation and mass slaughter. HAVE AN HONEST DEBATE. I am British, born in the East Midlands, and don't believe in any organised religion, but am I wholeheartedly sick of this persecution and racism masquerading as defense against a terrible enemy. How many billions of dollars, how many lives, how many lies???

Zak
, London, England

Peace is not written in the so called radical minds who use any narrow minded religion for atrocities. Its a well known fact what the moslim invaders did in South East Asia and Europe between 10 and 15th century AD. The problem with moslims is that their ability to think is nipped off the bud through radical islamisation in madrassas and that is the root cause of the problem. A radical cleric can inject venom much easily to the poor minds. You cant nip the terrorism just by waging a war.. rather understanding the basic facts that constitue it.

Jay, London, UK

Some of the people writing on this forum need to get their heads checked. All of these conspiracy theories about the UK and the US committing terrorist acts against themselves. I do not believe that our governments, no matter how much I may disagree with them at times, are so morally repugnant as to attack their own people.
There are people out there who hate the West enough to kill us for their own beliefs. And those people are not even so far away. I have spoken to many muslims in the UK who refuse to condemn the attacks and some who even try to justify al qaeda's actions. And these are the moderates!
As for the 'coincidence' of having emergency drills on the days of the attacks isn't sinister. It just reflects that our secret services are doing their jobs and had information that something like what did happen would happen. These were not the only drills and drills happen in other countries too.

Louise, London,

A big threat ! Am I supposed to be scared ? As someone famous once said "Bring it on !".

The British public don't run ! We leave that to our Sailors :o)

RA, Lincoln, England, UK.

I think we should all lower our sights a little, it doesn't need to be
nuclear , to hit the core of England.
Think about the easy way protestors have burst into the house of
commons in recent years.
A suicide bomber [ a cleaner for instance] could rock our
establishment easily by getting in there.
If I were planning something similar, this is where I would go, to a iconic
building of our establishment.
What better, than the place & the very people who made war on Iraq.
I sincerely hope the authorities have every possibility covered on this one ?

Maggie Millington, Brittany, France

I don't think we're talking a nuclear attack here. I think they are planning lots of smaller attacks, in cities all over the country. Something like that would be much more devastating than one large attack.

starling, Lancaster,

April has been the second worst month for the British Armed forces since the start of the Iraq war. Why hasn't anyone in the press said anything about it?

Brad, Austin, TX

Apparently no one was adept enough to READ that al Qaeda has been stopped from USING NUCLEAR BOMBS IN WESTERN CITIES.
For all the global warming and liberal nonsense the real fact is a dirty bomb with plutonium is going to pollute and murder to a disasterous scale. One can not just pack up London and move nor wash off their children from 10 year later cancerous tumors.
This public admission by the Times is astounding as this has been kept under wraps like all the nuclear information.
Europe will not figure it out nor will liberal Americans until bombs go off AND THEN they will somehow blame Bush when they let it happen and then DEMAND AMERICA DO SOMETHING.

Lame Cherry, Watertown, USA

One Jermaine Holder, Kingston/ Jamaica, writes below "this is a load of garbage...[a]phony war on terror is just like the proverbial three dollar bill."

Apparently he is unaware of the Islamist terror-war againstmostly Buddhist Thailand, killing several thousand people in the past few years; or the bloodier and longer terror- war against the mostly Catholic of The Philipines.

In fact, most wars in the world are because Muslims can't get along with Infidels, whether in Russia (Chechnya) or Nigeria or Somalia and elsewhere.

Wy does he imagine that the English speaking world is immune? Perhaps ill-informed?

T j Olson, Boulder, Colorado, USA

Terrorist Threat: The billions needed to set up and run Tony Blair's planned national ID card scheme would surely be better spent on funding extra police officers to fight terrorism. The Madrid train bombings showed that ID card schemes do NOT stop terrorist attacks!!

jonathan hurt, leeds,

Noble Resolve 07: Four days of “simulated” nuclear terrorist scenarios in the US & Europe
April 23-27
It is important to note the “Nobel Resolve” drills are dominated by NORTHCOM, the branch of “homeland defense” based in Colorado and responsible for shutting down the United States under martial law, as well as ushering in the merger of the US, Canada, and Mexico via the SPP.
Global Research says, spread the news to avoid what they call 'red teams' inside the drill be activated.

Just like 7/7 and 9/11 the drills will leave UK defenseless to deal with the real attack

Jack, ontario, CA

Those people who believe that "WE"
created this need to read the difinitive
history of Radical Islam and al-Queda,
"Looming Towers". We did not create
radical Islam. But we have made mistakes.

We need to find a way to get totally out of
the Middle East, including troops in Saudi
Arabia. But it is very important to do it in a way
that does not seem like a defeat for us.
To do that, will embolden al-Quaeda and all
radical Muslims. This will take some time.

In the meantime, we need to close our borders,
and remove all Muslims that portray radicalism.
Then secure our ports. Otherwise we will experience
a big hit. This is the first duty of any government.

But most important; we need to strengthen our
intelligence gathering acencies with quality assests
on the ground. We can never fight effectively until
we do this.

Finally, we must resign ourselves to hitting these
Radical Islamist effectively, and hurtfully, with
whenever they hit us. They are not going away!

Jeff McGuyer, Rockwall, Texas

Quite simply the easiest way to end Al-Queda's ambitions would be to counter an assault for each assault done in the name of Al-Queda. The collective target should be any nation where Clerics, Critics and condoners of such attacks are sourced from. That includes Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Palestine etc.
I believe that it would be quite reasonable to trade an eye-for-an-eye.

Again, I re-iterate - For each attack, the targets should be publicly announced to pressure these fanatics. If states are attacked that sponsor and support Terrorism, they should be accountable for the attacks. A few retaliatory strikes will certainly have a detrimental affect on the states that support these groups. With no state sponsored hiding grounds, the groups like Al-Queda, will have nowhere left to hide.

Mike, Stilwell, KS, USA

We will see how the liberals will handle this situation with terrorism very soon. I praise President Bush for his courage and determination to stand up to these cowards who target and kill innocent people. Democrats will be in charge of our country and they will find out that you cannot negotiate with terrorists. Its a joke that people suggest we should sit down and Talk with IRAN and Syria. LOL. Wake up, they hate our guts and will not quit until they kill all of us because thats what their religion tell them to do. So liberals, we will have to fight this war at some point and while we have our best trained soldiers over their we MUST keep fighting. And Yes, I already served my country in the First gulf war. God Bless the USA. Just remember, if it wasn't for the USA, Europe would be called Germany.

R. Smith, Atlanta, GA

I like this report, how it builds up the link between Iran and Al'Qaeda - "There is no evidence of a formal relationship between Al-Qaeda, a Sunni group, and the Shi’ite regime of President Mah-moud Ahmadinejad, but experts suggest that Iran’s leaders may be turning a blind eye to the terrorist organisation’s activities. "

Of course, it then completely forgets to mention how the extremists of the Shi'ites and Sunnis are doing their best to start a civil war in Iraq. To be honest - this sort of statement makes the liks between Saddam and Al'Qaeda look plausible, at least he wasn't in a group trying to start a civil war with Sunnis.

You will have to excuse my cynicism, and the fact that I take this report even less seriously than the evidence for going to war in Iraq.

Vincent, London, UK

First of all, the threat from Radical Islam is REAL. Hence the several 10s of thousands of dead Iraqis over the last 4 years. It is convenient to simply blame Bush for those deaths, but the vast majority of killed muslims were murdered by other muslims. In fact, world wide, the vast majority of terror's victims are muslim - killed while saying prayers in their mosques, shopping, or going to school. Under the Taliban in Afghanistan, a UN-built soccer stadium was converted to a gallows, where women were hung for not wearing their burqas, and men were hung for shaving their beard. The wackos of Al Queada would like for EVERYONE to live under that system of rules. And everywhere they have been able to overwhelm the "tolerant" population, they have instituted that form or law (whether officially, or simply through local intimidation).

There are plenty of "moderate" or "peaceful" muslims who would like to resist, but are often abandoned by westerners who say they are for "peace".

Mike Magner, Richmond, VA

The truth of this report aside (and who are we to second guess the complex secret world of the security services?) any cursory examination of the "noble" Qur'an, Hadith will show you that such an attack is entirely plausible; the motivation and determination to carry out such an attack is there. Violent, military jihad is the ONLY form of jihad, and any Muslim who tells you otherwise is a liar. In his time, the Prophet went on no less than 75 military campaigns, and do you think he just went door to door politely asking people to convert? When is the West going to realise that we are fighting ISLAM and nothing else? The moderate Muslims whom we so rely on are actually the BAD Muslims; Allah, and the Prophet have absolute contempt for Muslims who do not fight physically in their cause, and the only place for them is Hellfire. You see? To be a good Muslim you have to be a wicked human being!!!! For crying out loud when are we going to wake up! Read the Hadith!

Tim, Nottingham, England

I read these comments with total amazement. Many of you actually believe that there is no Al Quada, and Iran only wants peace. Ok, So, by saying there is no Al Quada, you are calling Bin Lauden a liar. (Not that Islam prohibits lying, in fact it encourages it)

So, All those Terrorist acts in OTHER countries are by United States, British, and Israeli intelligence services. . .

How is it, that (ALLEGED) Muslim groups such as Hamas make such brazen comments as Israel needs to be attacked, without those innocent, peace loving Muslims coming forward to disabuse the rest of the world?

And Iran is really wanting only peace? Ted Turner seems to believe that they should be allowed to have 10 nukes. I am guessing most of you believe the same.

What do you think is going to happen when an atomic device goes off in Israel? There will be a MASSIVE retaliation by the Israeli's . . . Those of you worried that the biggest problem the world faces is global warming take note here. . .

Raoul Kpecknie, Bugtussel, Oklahoma

The use of false-flag attacks to legitimate wars and direct political developments has a long history.

An attempt to invade Finland took place after the Russian artillery had fired the famous Mainila shots into their own territory.

BBC has produced fine documentaries about the Cold-War Operation Gladio, in which Western intelligence services participated in terrorist attacks on civilians, attacks that were then blamed on the Left. Hundreds of civilians were killed in the bombings.

It is a fact that terror drills and the real attacks often coincide. On the morning of 9/11, a number of plane hijacking scenarious were being played out in massive drills. And on 7/7 an antiterrorism exercise was being conducted in which three simultaneous bombs were to explode in the London underground at the same time as three simultaneous real bombs exploded at the same stations, as acknowledged by Peter Power. I don't think one needs to be a statistician to see that this cannot be a coincidence.

Nordic, Helsinki, Finland

It may be that people seem to forget history. These IslamoFacists have been at it for over a thousand years. For you conspiracy loons out there, that's a few years before Bush, Blair, the CIA, etc. The bottom line is - These people want to kill us. Always have, always will. What part about that don't some of you understand?

As far as it being 'Bush's War', well you're just totally wrong and have forgotten history once again. I won't go into long, boring quotes from the previous U.S. CIC or all of the U.S. Democrats who, pre and post 9/11, stated the danger of Iraq. The quotes are there for all to see.

As far as the U.S. and it's standing with 'the world'; The hell with you folks. We finally have a CIC that realizes the biggest threat to the Western world (and - sorry to burst your new religious bubble - it is NOT Gorebal Warming) and he is attempting to actually DO something about it. And who will the world call for help when they need it?

And, guess what - we'll be there.

Doktor, DeKalb County, IL, USA

Sebastion:
>>I find it interesting how the majority of commentators on timesonline seem to come from the US... Is is maybe because they do not have decent media over there?

Sebastion, you hit the nail on the head. In America, our major media is a branch of the liberal democrat party (but claim they are criticized for being to far to the right; and I'm Elvis at a convenience store), but we have the Internet to find out what's REALLY happening.

We CAN quit the War in Iraq...but Al Qaeda basically has nothing else to do but commit terrorist acts as Arab nations with oil tend to have high unemployement rates, while the brutal, hysterical dictators skim most oil income off the top, leaving table scraps for their citizens.

Iranians are marching in the streets for a completely different reason than they did in the late 70s! Once anti-American, they are now anti-corrupt dictators.

Jeff, Locust, USA/NC

Should the west make it plain to all of Islam that if a nuclear or biological attack takes place in the London, or New York, for that matter, Mecca would be gone. Not that we should do that pre-emptively, but if we made it obvious that should we suffer a devastating attack, Mecca would disappear for eternity.

Marilyn Able, Las Vegas, USA

Yes Marilyn, but one should also understand that such a course of action would lead to the complete annihilation of the State of Israel as well as American interests in the muslim world. Unfortunately the 'sword of Damocles' is double-edged.

Adrian Rowse, London,

The key is Pakistan, because that is where the nukes are. If I were running Al Queda, I would be cultivating Islamists in the Pakistani military and nuclear program. Pakistan will deny involvement and send blankets and perhaps a field hospital for the wounded. At the same time, liberals in Europe and
America will demand that nothing be done in response "to give diplomacy time to work." Anything to avoid a self-fulfilling prophesy: that we are at war with Islam, as we have been in the past, whether we recognize it or not. Islam is rising and will overwhelm us unless stopped as it has been in the past. By shock and blood and fighting. We have the military means to stop it. The question is whether we have the will. Based on recent facts, we are no longer "the kind of people" who do what is necessary to resist. One hundred years of idealogical wafare against the West -- too much of it by our own fifth column -- has left us confused and, ultimately defenceless

Joseph McNulty, Greensboro, NC, USA

Michael, the only way the Middle East will accept an agreement is when we all agree to be radical islamic converts. No, thank you - I like having freedom of speech, I like fair treatment of women, I like working hard to make my life better. The type of Islam they preach doesn't offer any of that, so their Sharia law can stuff itself. We live in a much more culturally advanced world and if extremist muslims want to drag us back into their Middle Ages, it's time you say 'No' and actually stand for what you believe in.

What we do need to do is make sure our democracy has a government for the people, not people for the government. Decent politicians simply wouldn't let themselves be bribed by multinational companies to sponsor their race to the crown.

Alex P., Norfolk,

John USA. Yes we have heard of Lend Lease. That was where the USA got a lot more out of us than we gave. Last year we finally paid off the last of the loans we got from the USA during WW2. Something most other countries didin't do by the way but we honour our debts.

Dave Proctor, Leeds, UK

>I'm so glad to know that I will be going home to be
>with my Lord along with all of my siblings in Christ
>pretty soon. It is so kind of our God to tell us what
>is going to be hqppening so that we can be looking
>forward to this instead of fearing it.


Funny, this is exactly the thinking behind Radical
Islam. As an Atheist, I have to say that religious
fanatics (no matter if they be Christian, Islamist,
or if they pray to the Cookie Monster) really scare
me. The world would be a better place if we could
just get past the Dark Ages of superstition once
and for all.

qo, San Jost, USA

.... As the brother of a Army colonel at Cent Com in Quatar, there is NO doubt that the Iraq war has been mismanaged fom the start.. he has witnessed it..Too many male egos ignoring good advice...As for the threat from terrorists..there will Always be distorted minds who believe violence is justified..It is human nature...If they obtain nuclear weapons, they Will use them. I have seen enough incompetence in governments and enough self serving behavior in ALL people to assume that it is just a matter of time... Most Americans, like people everywhere, simply want to live in peace. They are too busy earning a living to obsess over politics, and Nobody trusts those in power anyway. My prayers go to reasonable people all over this planet, and I hope the challenges facing the next 30 years-whether political or environmental- do not spell the end.. This discussion sounds like people throwing jabs with their opinions..No wonder no countries do the same.

W. Jake, Pennsylvania, USA

Many tens if not hundreds of thousands of people have realised that False-Flag terrorism is the order of the day. The objective of which is the manufacture of consent for actions and decisions by our governments that would otherwise have appalled the population. That being the case then if 'al-Qaeda' are currently 'planning [a] big British attack’ how can they possibly get away with it with our intelligence agencies hot on the case? Maybe they (the terrorists) will hijack or piggyback a legitimate counter-terrorism exercise as seems to have occurred on British soil in London on July7th 2005. Should we all be on alert everytime our own intelligence agencies take part in simulated/mock(/and arguably real) terrorist activities? If this occurs again will more people realise 'okay, so factions of our own intelligence agencies are the more likely culprits than our demonised muslim population'?

Anthony, West Yorkshire Truth Campaign, UK

An intelligence report may or may not have substance to it. Intelligence agencies are responsible to gather all the information they can from every source. Whether this particular report has substance, there is a jihad going on; there is no doubt that attack will come somewhere in Britain at some time.

Someone said that the UK should abandon its alliance with the US and make its own agreements with the Middle Eastern countries. If it weren't for Churchill, the word "Heil" would most likely be common in the UK today. Bow to the Islamists if you want.

The Iranians are setting themselves up as the power brokers in the Middle East. They have much to gain from terrorism. They are not afraid of British reaction. They committed an act of war against the UK with no negative conseqences for them .

Americans not have decent media? This from a country with the BBC? Hee Hee. What a hoot!

George Bush a threat to liberties? He leaves office in less than 2 years.

Terry L. Walker, Ladson, S,C, / USA

Some have claimed the Western rich/leaders are trying to work up the masses against Islam preparation for some great war. My question is, who's working up the Eastern masses? They are far ahead in the hate rhetoric. You who give sympathy to the Muslim countries should know the real secret.....if they'd just stop attacking Israel, the U.S., U.K. and other non-Islamic countries, we'd all leave them alone. Israel has already proved they'd give majority of the land back (just ask Egypt) It really is incumbent upon them to prove they are peaceful.....ever read Martin Luther King.....non-violence eventually works.

Read The Case for Democracy the Natan Sharansky and you'll get a true summary of how governments like Iran operate.

Culture_Skiptic, Charlotte, U.S.A.

Well said Arizona Mike,I agree completely, our problem in the UK is we dont have a leadership that has the backbone to say 'NO MORE!'

Our voting polls are coming up soon and all i see are jelly boned , out of touch politicians who don't really believe that UKpeople are fed up with being taken for a ride by people who want to blow us to pieces , I see it very simply, anyone with any connection to a terrorist group should be shown the door and if they bleat about their human rights and the need to have their family around them, then they should go and live in a country where they and their family are welcome, and not stay in the UK and be given housing and money and healthcare.

Teresa Nolan, Manchester, England

The best way to deal with rogue states is to keep offering the hand of diplomacy, and keep interference to a minimum! If Iran wants to develop nuclear power and weapons we don't really have the right to stop them! We have them and the Americans have them, but we wouldn't ever use them would we? (Or would we!) It would appear from the captured sailors incident that Mr Ahmadindejad doesn't have the wholesale support of his country.

When I was younger, it was communism, now it's AQ and radical Islam - there are plenty of religious extremists in America who want to see war in the Middle East to bring about the end of the world a la Revelation! Strangely, the words are always the same and there is always the inflated risk of being attacked.

MAD has always been an excellent deterrent to all out war and will remain so right up until someone uses them. Would you want nuclear weapons in the hands of religious extremists who want to bring about the end of the world? But enough of Mr Bush!

Simon Evans, Derbyshire, England

I read through all the comments and clearly there is a great divide among the peoples in the UK and America. I think the only way to clear this up, one way or the other, is for both countries to declassify a lot, if not all, of the reports showing the public the proof of ties between AQ and Iran, AQ and Iraq, etc etc etc.. Let the people see the proof, allow the media to investigate these reports, give people all the information. Then, and only then, will both sides (those thinking this is all made-up and those that believe every word the governments publish) see for themselves what is true and what is not. If we need to go on the attack with Iran than so be it, but only after the truth is published for ALL to see.

If we do not all get on the same side here then one day, and sooner rather than later, citizens will be fighting in the streets. Personally, if we need to nuke some countries to kill off this global war, then so be it. But show us proof, we can handle it.

John, Bow, NH

To Sebastian, Perth, AUS: No, Americans don't comment here because of the substandard nature of our own sources. I read the Times Online because it is part of four varied sources I read each day. Those include CNN (liberal), The Jerusalem Post (completely slanted), English version of Le Monde AND this paper. The New York Times is Reuters for the most part.

Perhaps some of us Americans like to be informed from more than just the 6:00 p.m. news on the tele.

The bulk of America is not as narrow or shortsighted as you might think, Sebastian. Don't stereotype too much, lest you paint your own mind into a corner.

James P, Sacramento, California

It's only a matter of time before a suitcase nuke destroys London and NY. Why are we building a missile shield? Who knows, many high ranking generals and others know that modern warfare will not be fought with traditional tanks and ammo.

Mordecai, Chicago, , IL USA

Nick it surely is. We don't have news in the US - we have Infotainment. I think Katie Couric being made a major News Anchor highlighted that wonderfully. Not there because she was a diligent and determined journalist, not there due to her award-winning news reporting. There because she's "Perky."

Christopher, Boston, Massachuetts

Speaking as someone who's experienced what it's like to walk past a terrorist bomb minutes before it was detonated, I feel saddened to say that some of the comments here frighten me more than any terrorist ever will.

To suggest that the threat posed by Al Qaeda means that all muslims are dangerous, as many here seem to believe and/or infer, is as silly as it gets. Timothy McVeigh and his friends were Christian, as are the IRA: does that then make all Christians murdering terrorists, too? Of course not.

You can't claim to be championing freedom by trampling on the rights and beliefs of others. I find it especially shocking that the US, a country built on the principle of freedom (especially freedom of religion), has become a breeding ground of mistrust, fear, hatred and ignorance of people whose only crime is to believe in a different faith.

If you want a land of the free then you have to believe in the rights and freedoms of those you disagree with, not just your own ones.

Harry, London, UK

Heather, Norwalk - why would someone "strap bombs to their own children to die"? Why assume that they do not care as deeply for their folks as you do for yours? And what - considering Afghanistan and Iraq - would you consider to be a "large scale attack"? The mind boggles.

d'argent, Clapham, UK

You know, somewhere, OBL is settleing down for the night but he can't sleep. He keeps bursting into laughing fits as his mind reviews all the things written here and elswhere by the general public. He has read the posts blaming Bush and Blair, the posts claiming it is our fault, the conspiracy theories, the counter theories and he has read every post where we in the "western world" hysterically point the finger at each other. He see's the weak blaming their government leaders. He see's the irrational calling for the total destruction of the middle east. He see's the paranoid believing a former KGB member. He has read where Briton's blame American's, American's blame the French and the French blame everyone-- but themselves.
And he say's to himself; "You fools, you blame everyone--- BUT ME AND MY BROTHERS!" He try's to stifle another laughing fit but fails.

Bob, Dayton, Ohio/USA

It amazes me that despite their own sordid history Europeans maintain an inflated view of their own moral superiority. I will suffer no morality lectures from a culture that brought us communism, fascism, socialism and Naziism. The collective result of which was nearly a century of incessant warfare that killed hundreds of millions of innocent people. Despite this, Europeans presume to lecture Americans on the morality of their actions? Spare me the lectures and the collective wisdom of a culture that is engaged in its own suicide pact. I opt out of that course of action. I would prefer, if necessary, to go down fighting.

Bob, Washington, DC

Britain and other European countries are easier to attack than the USA at the moment. A truly deadly, mass-massacre attack with unprecedented destruction and carnage in London or another British city might finally wake the cavalier British up and show other Europeans that this is a matter of survival. Islam is not compatible with Western Civilization and it wouldn't surprise if mass expulsions reminiscent of the Spain ejecting the Moors and Jews, etc. follow.
Britain has allowed itself to become a hotbed of Islamic radicalism, a fifth column, that doesn't want to live with it, but change it to an Islamic state. You...and we... are going to have to seriously consider expelling all Muslims at some point, particularly after attacks the size spoken of.
Iran itself is will invite retaliation if it can be tied to it as well.

M.Paul, Springfield, USA

Please.....a little compassion. Paranoia is a terrible affliction. We should all feel a bit sad for the conspiracy theorists among us. It's just not nice at all to keep poking at their soft little malformed brains with the sharp stick of logic.
If a belief in things like UFOs, ghosts, numerology, or the vast black ops of the military industrial complex keeps them busy, the rest of us should be happy.
It's the ones that aren't satisfied with simple internet venting we have to worry about.

M. L., Santa Barbara, USA

The mainstream media in the US are a pretty sorry lot, no question there, but Don is right as well... many people here follow the Brit press for a different perspective.
They are flawed as well but in some ways hold themselves to a higher standard of accuracy and fairness than their American counterparts.
As for this story, I hope Al Qaeda is caught red-handed before any harm can occur in Great Britain. But I fear the same responses will be forthcoming even so; some will see it as vindication of eternal vigilance, others will shrug and say, so what?

gb, Austin, US

All lies and fear; right, Bill? 9/11 never happened--Bush did that, right? London's tubes weren't really blown up, were they? Blair did that too, right? There's no AQ threat; it's all a vast right-wing conspiracy; right, Bill? Right.

F. Smith, Sonoma County, CA USA

What will it take for americans to wake up and see that the threat is real and it will come again to our country. When you have been targeted by these groups, They will not stop until they have accomplished their mission. Since we have taken the fight to the middle east, we have not hade a attack on our country, but I believe if the liberals have it their way, we will be attacked sooner than later. The British people are on the list and unless they open their eyes, we will be reading about another attack on our neighbors across the ocean.

Eddie, atoka, USA, Tn.

'Further I think that the muslim infiltration of western societies must be stopped. '??? Nice Effert!
What about the Project for a New American Century (PNAC) which advocates small global but localised wars ('theaters' as they describe (and mis-spell) it) and skirmishes in order to secure the resources that are required for use by the USA in order to maintain their status as the 'world's only superpower' - their description not mine. If that's not infiltration designed to overtake the running of any particular country on the basis that it has what America needs regardless of whether the country has negotiated to sell to another country or required it for its own use then I don't know what is. America is running scared, no-one wants to do business with them when it comes to natural resources as the markets that are emerging lie in the East. The dollar is dying, partly due to this and largely due to overspending in all aspects of American beauracracy and society. Britain is the same.

Mark Ardern, Cork, Ireland

To answer your question on why we(Americans) read and post on this site; if it is happening in the UK then it is on its' way here.
On a side note as an American I found myself deeply concerned on how your government handled the kidnapping crisis with Iran. Your soldiers seemed willing to capitulate to the enemy's demands rather quickly, and why were the Iranians not engaged while they were still in the water? I am not trying to point the finger at the UK on the contrary, I see some of the same reactions in the US, but rather I am trying to point out a general lack of will to confront an idea that seeks to bring war to the west. Why are we so afraid to fight? Just 2 day ago a twelve year old boy sawed of the head of a suspected Taliban traitor!!! Twelve!!! Our enemy seeks our destruction or subjugation, nothing less. I hope that when the day comes and our enemy is able to brings the war to our homelands we will have the strength to fight back.

William, Prescott, U.S.A.

The timing is very interesting. Note that 9/11 was initially planned by Bin Laden to occur much earlier in 2001 - but got pushed by troubles with the operatives in the US.

So the 1st bombing (of course it would have killed over 200,000 had it been successful as planned) of the WTC happenned a month after Clinton was sworn in. The second attack on the WTC, occured during Bush's 1st year (was supposed to be earlier).

Now this. A change of adminisration here in the US, and I suspect in the UK as well, is a very vulnerable time. Few are focused on the ball, during these tranisistions.

gh, LA CA, USA

Dear USA: When Europe falls apart, please don't forget your staunchest allies from the 'New Europe'. We are not all bad and many of us do our utmost to support the coalition and the war against terror. So considered sending military aid to Poland and Denmark, at least.

Your friend in liberty and freedom.

AB, copenhagen, denmark

Human BEINGS need to become more aware of what is happening in the NOW. The current media outlets along with thousands of years of mind conditioning has left 99% of humans on ths planet in a state that is ruled completely by the MIND. The media (contolled by governments) feed the fear in our minds to keep us consumed by our 'self' and by doing so limit our ability to see the truth about our existance. The truth is that be all have incredible powers that exist in the NOW. When we start to live in the moment in whcih we exist, an incredible creative intelligence gives us the power to respond in a way which can only bring peace and joy to this planet. Stop watching the news, it will only bring you misery. Are there any terrorists attacking you right NOW as you sit there and read this? Or is anything else bad happening? Come into the now, feel the peace of the moment, banish fear, worry, depression, stress and anger - these are MIND MADE - they are not you. You have a great power - use it.

Maria, Preston,

It is jaw-dropping to read all the British posts about how the US and the West in general has created the terrorist threat either by their decades long meddling in the Middle-East and/or their direct involvement in terrorist acts themselves ranging from 9/11to the recent abduction of OUR servicemen/woman. It is no wonder why the Britain has been relegated to the backwaters on the world stage with so many mindless, not to mention gutless, defeatists. It should also go without saying that the beheading videos were created by these right-wing tyrannical war-mongers as well. In that case, would it not be high time for us to reach-out and embrace these "peace-loving" Al-Queda types in Iraq and Afghanistan so that we can finally bring about global peace and harmony. Don't forget to share and celebrate in their rich culture and traditions. I wonder how many of you anti-US/UK /Western "we are always wrong" multi-cultural surrender specialists will rush to volunteer for such a noble cause. Bye!

Harry Lee, London, UK

The clock is ticking....the differences between islam and the western idealogies cannot be reconciled, i believe it is due to the contrasts in culture and the heavy indoctranation of young muslims. People should be able to choose their own beliefs. The british have fought many battles and many brave men have fallen to promote FREEDOM, i am left unsure as to what these extremists hope to gain except an early death?

A fanatic is one who can't change his mind and won't change the subject

Alex, Lancaster,

Yes they will attack, after all we have done nothing to show we would react with anything they have to fear. The Iran kidnapping, constant arguments over how everything we say and do is an insult to Islam, Moslem members of Parliament who attend hate sessions in their mosques, change our school systems bvut ony one way - we give - they take - we submit - i'm sick of it.
The more e respect them and they're rights, the weaker we are seen to be and the harder they push - govt sponsored islamic only schols - ridiculous. I pity poor Brit soldiers who daernt fire their weapons in case they get sued back in the UK by an Iraqi family looking for money. Get real England, or it will be Londonistan

Bailey, Redcar, UK

A nuclear attack by terrorists on a western city would perhaps not be totally catastrophic, but it would forever change the psyche and political persuasion of that country - and perhaps all other countries at the possible receiving end. It goes without saying that - if the government was unable to effectively respond - western terror groups would rapidly form to plot revenge against the aggressor, or whoever they believed the aggressor to be. At least these scares prepare us psychologically for such an event. If 9/11 had been a nuclear attack, the spirit of the USA would have been devestated in a quite different way. The nature of the murder and mayhem in Iraq does provide pointers to the ambitions of Islamist terror; those who put all the blame at the feet of Blair and Bush would be wise to investigate those ambitions, otherwise they could be caught looking the other way.

Donald Smith, London, England

Is the current situation in the UK not somewhat foretold in the River of Blood Speech? I truly wish no further attacks would take place, but as long as there are Muslim people living in daily horror, us non-Muslim will need to pay for US oil greed

A Saavedra, Seattle, WA

"Better them than us."

And that comment just brought you down to the level of the terrorists. Well done!

Now look at your wife, girlfriend, children, family, whoever. How would you feel if somebody said something like that about them? Please engage brain.

starling, Lancaster,

"The UK is a fine place for it to happen. Better them than us."

What have I ever done to you? Good grief.

Don't you get it? They would LOVE a war! That's why they do what they do! They want Armageddon! So they go to heaven, and you (allegedly) go to hell! That's why all these things happen with suicide bombs! They don't CARE if they die! Attacking them isn't going to stop them, geddit? Not starting a war is not cowardice, it's using your brain, not blindly following your testosterone-driven urges.

Andrew Munn: indeed, three letters: I.R.A.!

starling, Lancaster,

The oponents of the regime and its partner can choose what and when to make a 'hit" thus the appearence of driving insurgents out and security is just that an appearence. The reality that another 200,000 to 300,000 troops may stops this ALONG with the exercise of the political will of the gov't . to hammer a true reconcilation agenda is lost! Meanwhile the American Gov't is held hostage to exiting Iraq with the Lebanon experience for Israel being waved in its face by Al Qaeda.

German Alvarado, Roseville, USA

Ali,

first learn better english if your going to post on this site. Because if we read your post correctly it seems as if your trying to blame Israel again for all your woes and your governments issues. Start to question your government, we do it here everyday.

Marc, Hollywood, USA

Ditto, Debra B; election year political posturing by the democrats is sending horrifically bad messages to our enemies. Blood is on the hands of the congressional leadership on this.

Bob, Moline, US, IL

It makes me crazy how well the 'left' of the world dismantles the threat that radical islam presents to us.

The parallels to the run up to WWII are astounding. What exactly do Europeans put in their water? Or is it mostly beer? How can everyone not see that something should be done about these problems before they become nuclear / biological / other in nature?

Why all the self blame? The west has done wonders for the world - despite the ranting of a few dictators that would like to see the west fail so they can survive. Get a clue, lefties.

Jon, Albuquerque, USA

More than a little worrying when you consider that within the last 7 days a small quantity of radioactive material has been stolen from North Carolina, USA and 10 x 300g jars of yellowcake uranium stolen from the Olympic Dam Mine in Australia.

Kev, Surrey, UK

Gotta love that religion of peace.

Recently I've heard a lot of chatter by the British media over we dangerous Americans who own guns. If Islam, the religion of peace, succeeds in starting a holy war in the UK, you'll all wish you had guns - because believe me - they will have them.

i-live-2-ride, Erie, PA, USA

How convenient - the A Q bogeyman! Just in time when Iraq and Afganistan are such major failures for the US and UK. I guess we should believe what MI5 say to us - they operate totally independently from the government and have no interest in propaganda whatsoever.

Sir John JK Peters, Somerset,

How could this be?

Don't we all know it is impossible for Sunni Al-Qaeda to be allied with Shi’ite Iran? Do we not remember the ridiculous suggestions that Islamist Al-Qaeda worked with secular Iraq? Before long, someone will say that Communist Russia cooperated with Nazi Germany.

Pavel, Boulder, CO

to all you yanks out there we don't hate you but then again
we don't love you either ,we like you love our country and
wish to protect its customs and culture you have exported to us hundred's off American brands which many Brits don't like spoiling our towns and cities you call it progress we
call it greed so it is simple to see why other cultures hate
you you take but give nothing in return,perhaps your people
need to rethink your strategy as we enter the 21st century.

george william taylor, hull, uk

AS a right-wing-reactionary-nutcase, I say great!!! The only thing that is going to convince the cowards on the left that we really are facing a threat from these islamic swine is for many more thousands of our people to die. The UK is a fine place for it to happen. Better them than us.

DVS, Chicago,

On terrorism.

Let's remember that most people slaughtered in Britain by terrorists were done so by US backed "Christian" terrorists (gangsters).

Andrew Munn, Bangkok, Thailand

"Western countries should make it clear to Iran, that any terrorist attack made possible by such politics will be considered as an act of war and will result in massive retalliation. "

But don't you see? They don't care! They are convinced they will go to heaven, they don't care how many of their own people get killed, since -they- will go to heaven too!

You can threaten to flatten every single Islam country, but the extremist terrorists will only see it as encouragement and proof of the terribleness of the Western countries.

starling, Lancaster,

Dipesh
I have here another story from your mail.
Health alert as vast tide of sewage spills into the sea
David Lister, Scotland Correspondent

Why not take a leave and rest then come back from Ganges anf Ymuna. You look tired
Al-Qaeda ‘planning big British attack’Dipesh Gadher

Firozali A.Mulla MBA PhD, DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania

just to see compare the killing during Sadam and Know

Patel, Dammam, KSA

world peace thru unconditional surrender, i say

Winston Churchhill, London, England / UK

Last free man out of Europe, turn out the lights!

Brendan, Huntington Beach, USA

If the U.S. and the U.K. are not fiercely serious about watching where every once of nuclear material goes in every country that has the capacity to create weapons grade material, then it is only a matter of time until New York, Washington or London dissappear and become permanently uninhabitable. We know the will is there for Al Qaeda and others to do it. It is solely a matter of getting their hands on the material.

Knave Dave, Honolulu, HI

Yes, Mr. Debham. If you just stop fighting and come to an "agreement" with them, you will be safe. Appeasement, part duex?

That didn't work with Hitler. He flattenned your cities right after signing your "agreements." This time the enemy is far more ruthless and for some ridiculous reason, they do not fear death. In fact they honor it and would be happy to take as many "infidels" with them as they could. Strike now, while you still have a technological and milataristic advantage and you will prevent future mass casualties.

Andrew, New York, U.S.A.

Well this is one Brit who takes this seriously, and there are many, many more like me in this country.

The anti-war mob have had their day, their voices, opinions and pleas for appeasement no longer count.

Put bluntly, the defence of our country will never be allowed to fall into the hands of liberal and socialist apologists; our forefathers stood firm against the Nazis and today we will do the same to the scourge of radical, militant Islam.

Andrew Murray, London, UK

After our saving European butts twice, and listening to the never-ending and increasing ingratitude in return, this Yank would just as soon let the idiot Euros deal with their own problems. The more I see of the "New Europe", the more I understand why our ancestors left the old one. I praise and thank God every day that I'm an American!

Mad Dog, Riverside, CA

Another "leaked memo" and just before an election in the UK........that's my boy, keep the electorate in a state of fear with leaked nots, threats and over elaborate security at airports and every event only equalled as an excuse by that old chestnut "Health and Safety". I agree that this Government is worse than anythng that could have been envisaged in 1984 in its controlling and exploiting the mental state of its people of its own advantage. You know that nswer....get rid of them and vote anyone but Labour!

George Thompson, Biarritz, France

A leaked intelegence report! Right!
Mr Gadher. Your credibility has just gone right out of the window.
A leaked intelegence report is an oxymoron. Think about it!
Whats your motive? Who told you to write this? Who are you trying to scare? and Why?

Douglas , Crawley, W Sussex UK

Any 'Britons' who conspire with the country's enemies are guilty of treason. At the very least they should be stripped of their citizenship and sent into exile. Perhaps Iran would like them.

Adrian Gilbert, Tonbridge, England

As for Sebastian in Perth who said, "I find it interesting how the majority of commentators on timesonline seem to come from the US... Is is maybe because they do not have decent media over there?"
To answer your question: we take an interest, in spite of having plentiful media coverage here *ignoring the sarcasm*. Personally, I would not scoff at the subject of this article because it is something that hits close to home and brings about many sensitivities. You can blame the US if it is easier, but I don't think those mental-defective jihadists would just go away if we didn't exist. They obviously want the whole Western world to live in fear of them.

J. Cotton, Cincinnati, US

Dan from Orlando,
Don't worry about the Euros, soon the Mexicans will take back the land your Euro ancestors stole from them. Europeans can't complain about immigrants when they colonised and ruled the lands of said immigrants for centuries.
By the way, Most Mexicans have enough Amerindian ancestory to rightfully call themselves Native Americans.

Geronimo, Milwaukee, USA

I think it should be made clear to the government of Iran that any terrorist attack on a western country will be viewed as state sponsored by them and we will respond in like, 10 fold.

Harry Callahan, Las Vegas, Nevada

All Muslims expelled?

U. Effert, Dresden, Germany where have we heard this before?

denchanter, london,

The best way to deal with the Middle East is to make ourselves as energy independent as possible and stop buying their oil and gas.

Then we just needn't bother to talk to them again..

Dick, Aberdeenshire,

I am Right Wing and am ashamed to say that I find myself afraid of a possible attack. We should not be afraid of these terrorists who are nothing more than those with a 'desperado' attitude to the fact that they are not born in, or citizens of the glorious, worthy nations of the West.

A.F, London, London

I find it quite scary to read these posts, mostly by americans, which are all about "fighting evil" . I must say that I am as scared of the islamists as of the USA, a paranoid nation which is convinced of its superiority over the world. Before accusing the French of being "surrender monkeys" and the Middle East of being a barbaric region, learn a little bit of history!
Moreover, since the US invaded Iraq (sending to war 18 years old boys without any proper tactical and psychological training) they have actually made the world a more dangerous place.

Sarah, London,

I think the West needs to go through this pain. It is sad, but a cost of the apathy that comes with comfortable democracies. My sense is that the more comfortable life becomes in the West, the more socialist it becomes. Given the pro-human rights legal systems that ensue, radicals can thrive and hide behind the laws when they get caught. When it is important for the sleeping giant West to wake up, it will. Hope it doesn't cost too many innocent lives in the meantime.

Craig, Sydney, Australia

We must embark on a long period of training in Arabic, but with no indoctrination. The geographical spread of Arabic by conquest (Fatah) however does mean that the religion and its language are entwined.

We must try to cultivate a communality with moderate secular Muslims in what they see as the undying truth of religious belief in compassion, tolerance and the undying truth of Love - which all religious faiths, throughtout all cultures, have aimed towards. We must embrace that, but be prepared to remilitarise as the jihadis continue to press the West.

We cannot alienate moderate Islam which does want to change. We need to acknowledge our own arrogance in the colonial era and Islam has to acknowledge their's in their sense of the primacy of Islam above all other religions. The codes of Religious orthodoxy only divide. Liberal atheism, a la Dawkins, will not work as a motivator - however reasonable. It is goodness, perceived by all faiths and none, that will prevail.

John Farthing, Coventry,

How odd that everybody has a go at left wingers. I have found from experience it's usually the right-wingers who do the ostrich impressions. And having a go at "liberals" is a typically US thing to do, so maybe the UK is turning into an extension of the US after all. I find it really weird that people feel compelled to have a go at people who care about others, not just about themselves.

As for me, people have stuck the left wing label on me (although the party I vote for is centre-right), but yes, I'm scared, and I agree with Candido's assessment of the situation.

I just don't feel the need to have a go at any country in particular. Let's face it, we all agree with the fact that we don't want it to happen.

starling, Lancaster,

How can any country turn a blind eye on Al Qaeda?

Western countries should make it clear to Iran, that any terrorist attack made possible by such politics will be considered as an act of war and will result in massive retalliation.

Western countries should generate so much diplomatic, economic and military pressure, that all islamic countries are anxious to weed out any terrorist activity whatsoever in their territory.

Further I think that the muslim infiltration of western societies must be stopped. As for Germany I would like to see all muslims expelled whose attitude indicates that they are not supporting the civil rights as assured by the german constitution.

U. Effert, Dresden, Germany

Every one of these articles elicits comments from Americans suggesting Britain should be grateful for Lend Lease. Really? How about next time you want to invade somewhere, we let you hire our troops? Who knows? Maybe if you're paying for them, you'll be a bit more careful not to shoot them.

As regards the threat from Al-Qaeda, the best defence against any fanciful ideology (including ridiculous Christians looking forward to the end of the world) is to ensure that we educate and discipline our children. If we were seen to be generous, caring, tolerant and just, it would be hard to raise a rabble against us.

That tolerance should not extend to allowing criminal preachers to incite violence from within our own shores. And the international community should make it quite clear that it won't tolerate threats from abroad either (not to mention acting in Darfur, Zimbabwe, etc, where dictators oppress their own peoples). Ignorance and poverty make people suggestible.

Jem, London, UK

De ja vu........there was no link between Iraq and Al Qaeda, despite what those self-interested and self-absorbed oil hungary Yanks might have wanted us to believe and it is beyond belief that Iran is in cahoots with Al Qaeda - they hate each other more than they hate anyone else. Ideologically they are poles apart. Alas, who cares about the truth when there is oil at stake?

Dr Anderson-Smith Jones, LONDON,

John - we have heard of Lend Lease. It is the war debt that Britain was repaying until 2006, so nothing was for nothing. And WWII started in 1939; if it took two years (and an attack) for the US to work out what was right and what was wrong, then we are in trouble...

d'argent, Clapham, UK

Wake up liberals in UK and U.S. - just because Bush has done a horrible job doesn't mean his enemy isn't real. By your illogical way of thinking, if we had lost to the Nazi's, the war would have been uncalled for. Don't criticize Bush, get people who will do a better job and save Western civilization. There is only one thing better about Bush than all his critics - he has a plan. Not a very good one, but none of his critics ever come up with anything except the French plan of surrendering before being attacked.

David, Plano, TX, USA

The interdiction task is humongous and daunting. Like trying to find the proverbial needle in a haystack.

The bad guys need only to succeed once.

We the defenders have to be covering every possible angle.

The odds are not in our favor, but hopefully the Lord is.
.

Candido, New Hyde Park, USA, New York

I think you will find that most "mainstream" news sources are heavily censored now. At least the russians openly ADMIT this, here in the west we suffer without openly aditting it. From an Australian perspective, we can from a distance see whats going on and the UK and US are fed so many "Rumours of War" and "leaked memos" to keep the punters scared its laughable. Hint - propaganda always says "unknown soucres" or "dissident groups" or a deliberately vague/general threat. If you track these news stories you will see them recycled to keep people scared.
In the same vein, we alwsys see "threats" when a PM is in trouble, then the people arrested are quietly released - tanks around Heathrow....what a laugh!!!!!!!!!
So predictable. Oh, and global warming is a HUGE scam by the way. Thats another huge lie. The lunatics are running the asylum now.

steve williams, Geraldton,

I'm a US Citizen and I do not think that our foriegn policies cause any reason for anyone around the world to chop peoples heads off on camera or to strap bombs to their own children to die! Get off your high horse's and open your eyes, even if you dont like the Good O'le USA, you still have to agree that all FREEDOM loving people and countries around the world really need to wake up and see the real threat to our way of life. We love our children and our freedoms and these Islamists are doing their damndest to change all of that. I'm so scared that it will take a large scale attack for us to finally do something on a large scale together to stop them. Please people No matter how much you hate America, you cannot still want our destruction and when I say our I mean, the US and all of Europe!

Heather , Norwalk, CT/USA

Dear American Friends,

I share your disgust with the left wing liberal idiots living in the UK. The attitude of these people really beggars belief. Their main source of rancor for so long has been their own political leaders and they really can't conceive of anyone nastier than Tony Blair and George Bush who they are happy to demonise. The idea that AQ would like to cause chaos and untold destruction seems much too far-fetched for them. It's much more plausible that their own horrible leaders have made it all up so that they can impose draconian laws upon us. After all, Blair and Bush are really evil and they don't care about protecting freedom at all, do they?

'The Left' - utterly hopeless wimps.

Mike Wood, Bradford, UK

In case it's been lost on those outside of America, the LEFT controls the majority of the media here. And Fox News is one of the very few that doesn't follow a strict left agenda.

Mary Catherine, Elmhurst, US/IL

It is very unlikely that an attack of that magnitude, Hiroshima and Nagasaki, will happen. Al-Qaeda has yet to acquire nuclear weapons; which I attribute to the current US occupation of Iraq. Most likely the attack will be --
a big explosion. "They [Al-Qaeda] have got to do something soon that is radical otherwise they start losing credibility." Al-Qaeda feels the need to attack because the U.S. has progressively put pressure on them and kept them on the run. I think an attack at this point, although the war on terror is far from over, will most likely be foiled.
At least in the U.S. we don't have to worry about any of the bombs entering the Country through the Caribbean because the liberal democrats, on a homeland security trip, just secured the Caribbean with their wives in a five star hotel. They have no problem funding their "homeland security trip," through the Caribbean, but they can't fund their own soldiers in Iraq.

C.S. Smith, Baltimore, MD

It MIGHT be that Bush / Blair want a one world order. There is exculpatory evidence to SUGGEST such a thing. But if you have ever used to the term ‘Bush lied’, then the only way you can come to the conclusion that this is all propaganda, is by admitting YOU ARE A HIPOCRITE. Because after all, there STILL IS more exculpatory evidences that Iraq has WMD’s than Bush / Blair want a one world order.

HOWEVER, to really hammer the nail into the terrorist sympathizer’s coffin, the terrorists have PUBLISHED their intent in black and white. And it DOES talk about a one world order. You dismiss your own government for being fallible and making mistakes, then turn around and grant supernatural perfection to YOUR enemies despite the STATED GOAL OF KILLING YOU HORIFFICALLY.

That is the VERY DEFINITION of DUMB.

Jon, Austin, TX, USA

I think we have to ask, why have these 'top secret' documents been 'leaked'? The documents implicate Iran in harbouring and aiding al-Qaeda terrorists, and we all know what has happened to every country that has had similar accusations made against it in the past....

Harry Watson, Nottingham,

Mike, St. louis: "Right-wing reactionary drivel aside...
Seems like they've been successful with this approach to date."

So you do feel comfortable after NY 911, Madrid 311 and London 77 if this is a fraud? Then youn don't want to fight nuckear in the hands of militant islamists, which of course is the option if nuclear became a product of the islamistic ruled arabic states (Iran feed the insurgents of Al Qaida i Iraq with arms right now).

I say. It might be right, it might be partly or a lot fraud -- doesn't matter to what we have to do. Learn from 911, 311, 77 an hundreds of other not often mentioned terror attacks i the west. It's not wrong to look at the ambitions of the islamists too. Whos our enemy? Those who fight the islamists? If so: Sorry moonbat. I can't help you more than this...

/Magnus Andersson, Sweden.

Magnus Andersson, Goteborg, Sweden

Well what do you expect? We bend over backwards to to help "liberalise" a society that does not know the meaning of the word! Shortly after the 7/7 bombings, James Naughty was interviewing an islamic religlous leader and he asked him "ok, what are your demands? the IRA had demands, the Bader Mienhoff group had demands, the Red Army faction had demands" the religous leader thought about this and said " there are no demands, we want to islamicise the UK and we will do it by terrorism, we will win"

Think about it, we have already started! We cannot show our religous beliefs in the form of crosses as it offends Muslims, the government has sterted issueing bonds which will be compliant with Sharia law! Wake up Britain.

Chris Coughlan, Hanover, Germany

Wake up America!!!!!! Call on God to protect us!!!
God loves America, but we need to repent and ask forgiveness for walking away from Godliness. We need to walk away from Hollywood and the rest of the Godless people.

/clare, Denver, USA, Colorado

Sounds like Atomic detonation.
Maybe Blair should sidestep down & avoid PR for his resigning & get to those Churchill Bunkers & get 007 on the job Mates.
Time to Unify..
Combine forces.
Expand Intelligence.
Attack can be Dirty Nuke, Nuke or Biochem.
Expand UK Security.
Get MI6 involved.
Moneypenny call 007.

Tap Iran communications.
Trace communications.
Share info with US & pvt Security units.

stephen russell, La Canada, CA USA

I have worked in Iraq for 2 years, why on earth in England do we put up with it? i know many local nationals here in Baghdad of many sectarian divides would swap places with these So called British Citizens waging war, some of these people have never even been to Iraq ! a local recently said to me " why are the people who claim to be Muslim, in England blowing you up?, let me come to England and take there place" in other words these so called radical extremeists in UK have nothing to complian about you have benefits you have health care you have your own mosques you talk your own language, sorry i am not racist i am factual , i am a culturist, and i have not come across Christian Suicide bombers on mass as yet! Name will be supplied if you dare publish it.. Genuine Citizens of UK have had enough of slack immigration, fine come to my country if you have something to give if not go somewhere else it doesn't matter if your pink white blue black white, Its not about Race its murder!

Lee Harrison, London, uk- Baghdad

Imperialism has been deeply entrenched in the western psyche since time immemorial. It is high time western society takes united responsibility for a large number of the conflicts that afflict the today's world. I think if one were to look back in history, many such conflicts can be attributed to the machinations of the erstwhile British empire and later on to American imperialist designs. I think one of the reasons Islamic countries feel alienated is because of the attitude of the West towards these countries. Hatred will always breed more hatred. Maybe it is time we look back into our past and develop a deep understanding of our actions and their repercussions and take appropriate steps to reconcile the deep rift between the western and the islamic states. Unless we take such radical measures, all we will have left is an increasingly more polarized world. Our inherent intolerance for other cultures will only breed hatred and perpetuate death and destruction.

Siddhartha Ghosh, Canterbury, UK

Michael Debham - Our interests were attacked long before Afghanistan and Iraq. Remember the Bali bombings?
Before afghanistan/iraq Al-Queda had different stated aims (removal of USA from Saudi Arabia etc).
The point is that no matter where we stand, or who we stand with we are a target. Closely aligning ourselves with the USA we no doubt draw more fire - but we would be a target whatever.
Also involved in this point of view is the desire to blame ourselves. No doubt Afghanistan and Iraq have stirred things up, but Al-Queda would still be planning and plotting. It is the fault of an interprertation of a religion and a hatred of the West. Jealousy that we use the resources of middle-eastern countries (oil) etc - yet Iran/Iraq are still poor - riddled with corruption, hatred and strife.
I have no solution to the problem, but blaming ourselves and accusing our governments will do no good (even though trust Blair as far as I can throw him, I'd have him over an Al-Queda operative)

David Thomas, Reading, England

"If we were not in Iraq, Afghanistan, and behind the US we would not be a target.

It's time we pulled out of the alliance with Bush and came to an agreement with the Middle East. The radical Jihadis are not going away that easy. They have designs to spread their version of Islam across the broader Middle East first. They intend to regain Afghanistan, then control Iraq, then Jordan & Lebanon. Israel is next on the list. English, French & German Muslims will be instigated to demand more Sharia compliant laws until submission is achieved. How do we know this? The jihadis tell us. Often.

esteemed effendi, anytown ,

I don't think its a lie at all, with all due respect to Bill from Atlanta. The possibility of this has been growing exponentially over the past few years.

I don't think its Britain. I think the target is the U.S. The question is where and when? This event was in the cards, never a matter of "if."

I hope that large, pink elephant we spend scads of money on, called Homeland Security, is doing its job and living up to the expectations we've invested in it.

No matter where it strikes, though, there will be a horrible retaliation. And, you can believe me, a nuclear strike against Britain will invoke the same outrage and response from America as one against our own soil, too. Let us all hope this insane plan is interdicted before it can happen.

The world will change irreparably if it does.

James P, Sacramento, California

Bush gets blamed when he goes by aquired intellgence and he gets reamed when doesn't go by aquirted intelligence. The fact is, no matter what decision the man makes, you all blame him.

If everybody would just stand together and show these crazy extemist long enough to show them "HEY! We ain't takin' this anymore", maybe we'd get somewhere.

No, instead we stand on our internet soapbox preaching how everythign is wrong in the world. We blame our soldiers risking their lives. We make horrid accusations against our leaders. We cower down and cater to terrorists' demands. It's sickening.

Stand up for what you believe in, people. Quit blaming Bush.

Let's not be bullied around anymore, let's support our troops, and lets not make this war another Vietnam

Thomas, Sullivan, Missouri

Everyone wants to negotiate with these fanatic's. There was a reason that the allies in WWII adopted a policy of UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER. Because their enemy used negotiation as a means of delay and greed. When in the end what they wanted was to take everything and kill all who were different.
The leaders and followers of this line of thinking had to be destroyed, utterly, before those of more mature thinking could come into power. It took decades and commitment to achieve this.
We can expect no less in the ongoing battle. More will die on both sides before resolution is accepted or achieved. History is speaking to us if only people would listen.

Leroy Dupuy, New Iberia, LA

Why don't we like all chill out man and relax and be cool and not worry about any of it.

Paul, London,

It is truly amazing how scared Americans are of "the terrorists." Sorry to tell you guys, a bunch of radical muslims aren't going to bring down all of Western civilization. Seriously, get a grip. The only threat the middle east has is on our energy supply. There is a really easy solution to that: Produce our own energy! Wind, hydro, and nuclear can eliminate our dependency on mid-eastern oil, and thus any interest we have in that region. Once we get our noses out of that barbaric region of the world, we can let them do whatever they want. But I hate to tell you guys, your SUV's are paying for the bombs killing our servicemen and women. Please stop giving these people more credit they deserve!!!! It took them years to plan 9/11, and in historical comparison, that was a minor attack. These are a people who torture and hold people without charges or a trial - oh wait... maybe they already did bring down the U.S.

Michael, Brooklyn, NY

I rather suspect these comments have been cherry-picked to avoid a deluge by us so-called "nuts" who realize that the New World Order politicians will cynically do anything to bring about world dictatorship. We don't dismiss this threat as unreal, we merely understand that, like 9-11, secret agencies can coordinate outrageous attacks and blame them on Moslems (an easy target given that certain fanatics do indeed engage in true terrorism, ussually small suicide bombs). A secret agency will locate unballanced Moslem individuals and set them up as believable patsies. Along with Cheney's "lost nukes" and other unsubtantiated stories, let's refuse to accept everything we are told. Critical inquiry seems lacking on the part of many reflexively "patriotic" commentors.

William B., Huntington Beach, California

Wow - I think some of us have WAAY too much time on our hands. (Including me, perhaps).

Many of the comments are just too far fetched to be believable:
1 - 9/11, 7/7 et a; were "Flase Flag" operations: I ask you, could the same administration that can't get away with firing 8 attornies general pull off such a complex conspiracy ?
2 - Sunni (Al Qaeda) & Shia (Iran) Won't/Can't work together: There are too many examples across all of history were co-conspirator's have nothing in common except their mutual enemy. This includes the several of USA's short sighted alliances..
3 - Leaks are always propaganda with a purpose : We are victims of our own 4th Estate. After "All President's Men" / Watergate, "The Press" knighted themselves as protector's of democracy and must do so within a Profit & Loss target. Now, we don't know who to trust because even the press has an agenda. These "leaks" are as often a reporter pumping their contact, then overplaying some tiny bit of info.

Bostononian, Boston, MA, USA

Quite simply the easiest way to end Al-Queda's ambitions would be to counter an assault for each assault done in the name of Al-Queda. The collective target should be any nation where Clerics, Critics and condoners of such attacks are sourced from. That includes Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Palestine etc.

In the Muslim faith, it would be quite reasonable to trade an eye-for-an-eye.

Again, I re-iterate - For each attack, the targets should be publicly announced to pressure these fanatics. If states are attacked that sponsor and support Terrorism, they should be accountable for the attacks. A few retaliatory strikes will certainly have a detrimental affect on the states that support these groups. With no state sponsored hiding grounds, the groups like Al-Queda, will have nowhere left to hide.

Mike, Stilwell, KS, USA

Amazing to me that some Brits on this site are saying, hey, America didn't get involved in WWII until 1941. while this is a fact, WHY is it true? Because of an isolationist movement and anti war movement in this country, we did NOT get involved. IMAGINE if we had listened to what Hitler said in his speeches and in Mein Kampf and acted against him earlier. how many millions of lives might have been saved. By the way did you ever hear of something called "LEND LEASE?"

History is bound to repeat itself. The hate america/hate bush crowd clearly doesn't see the threat that Bin Laden and his ilk represent. It will only act, I fear after the next attack which will make 9/11 and 7/7 look like childs play

john, USA,

The "west" is facing all kinds of threats... and has been since WWII. It's just that now we're waking up to it. Britain, Europe and the U.S. have been happily let the reast of the world do it's thing. Because we're that kind of culture- permissive, forgiving and more than not Christian. Let's all enjoy it while we can. Once the hammer falls it's clear that the west will dominate like never be4. Like it or not!

Thomas, San Francisco, USA

Everyone, you just don't understand. This goes beyond Islam. Arabs have always been 'conquest oriented' before Islam. Persian Empire ring a bell? Iran has always been the seat of the Elitist Arabs. There have and will be jihads, just insert appropriate religion here.
Also, the takeovers that have occurred in the past 15 years is worse than either prior to both World Wars. First, UN populated by Arabs and Muslims. Next, EU cowtowed. Britain now overtly populated by Arabs and Muslims. Here in the US, they have the Lib Left placating to them. What the hell does it take for people to realize just what is going on..a total takeover. Our "Corporation of Freedom" is immersed with a hostile takeover.
If it keeps going this bad, China and Russia will be our only salvations since they are the only ones left big enough and strong enough to endure and overcome what the rest of the countries have rolled over like dead sheep. Mark my words: Western Freedom is being held hostage.

Erik M, Virginia Beach, USA

Islam is a dead end culture and Western culture has nothing to fear from it, with a couple of caveats.
The importing of Islamists for the benefit of businessmen who wish to depress the wages of the indigenous skilled and semi- skilled is dangerous in the long term.
The high birthrate of Islamists will also cause problems.
Militarily, Islamic countries are pathetic and therir military technology and science in general are laughable.
We need to fear them as individuals because of terrorism, but as a society their inferiority is there for everyone to see.

Jeremy, Worcester, England

We have made too many blunders when it comes to intelligence reports. If there is evidence of an upcoming attack, then go ahead and stop it. Stop trying to scare the public...if they know of a plan, then they should do what they are paid to do...and disrupt it.

Kevin , San Diego, Ca

I guess the left will forever blame Bush for the actions of the Islamo-facists. These people hate us. Wake up- it is kill or be killed. I suppose Bush was responsible for 9-11 too. It doesn't matter who the POTUS is they will still try to kill us. Hope we have some one in there with the balls to do what needs to be done. bush would but he has been castrated by the left and congress

Dave, California, U.S.A.

Bill of Windsor Ont. -

If Hillary is elected, your vision just might be realized!

Tom, Virginia Beach, VA , USA

Noble Resolve 07: Four days of “simulated” nuclear terrorist scenarios in the US & Europe!

Coincidence?

Jesse Jones, West Jordan, UT

WOW, I guess now it is the medias fault for terror. Well the problem is simple: if you are right no problem...what if you are wrong, are you willing to bet your life as well as a few hundred thousand people because YOU think someone was "manipulating" the press. So when it happens will you be sorry? of course not you will complain that the goverment did not protect you enough! europe you deserve what you get....good luck!

Mgent, parkersburg, WV

the koran has 164 quotes saying either submit, surrender or die. if you combine hitler's mein kamph and the communist manifasto,they are mild compared to islamic teachings. the world must awake to the fact that this will last for many decades,we cannot hide behind an imaginary maginot line. political correctness must be discarded in this battle. the economic systems in every islamic country are documented failures,so they move to free countries that have those hard fought for freedoms,the very ones not TOLERATED IN THEIR SOCITIES and thru our court systems chip away at our freedom. we must all stand and fight.

don , pacific grove, ca. usa

In the book of Revelation in the Bible God has told us that toward the end of this era Gog and Magog , modern day Russia enter into and agreement with ancient Persia which is Iran and Iraq. I'm so glad to know that I will be going home to be with my Lord along with all of my siblings in Christ pretty soon. It is so kind of our God to tell us what is going to be hqppening so that we can be looking forward to this instead of fearing it.

Deborah L, Griffith, Kennesaw, Georgia, U.S.A.

Should the west make it plain to all of Islam that if a nuclear or biological attack takes place in the London, or New York, for that matter, Mecca would be gone. Not that we should do that pre-emptively, but if we made it obvious that should we suffer a devastating attack, Mecca would disappear for eternity.

Marilyn Able, Las Vegas, USA

If we were not in Iraq, Afghanistan, and behind the US we would not be a target.

It's time we pulled out of the alliance with Bush and came to an agreement with the Middle East.

Michael Debham, Bedford, UK

Very insightful and well thought out! You aren't a cartoonist or a movie director are you?

C, Omaha, Nebraska/USA

If this attack does happen and it is on American soil. This will be exactly what Bush has been waiting for. We will be informed that this country is now under martial law and until he decides that the emergency is over he will remain President and that will be the bitter end of our constitution.

Richard, Deadwood,

I think everyone's opinion has one fatal flaw: generalizing each country. Not everyone, in every country, has the same opinion or world view as the government that runs it. Sometimes, despite our vote, people get elected that we didn't vote for. So, to those who live outside the US: stop and realize not all Americans are the 'American Government'. To generalize by saying all americans think or believe a certain way is insulting.

wayne, strafford, usa

Al Quaeda was created by Laden with support of the CIA to fight the reds in the 1970. This is history. Research 9/11 and don't be affraid of finding a shoking truth because we are thousands waking up every day.

Louis, motnreal, canada

The Brits are blinded by thier own self consumed hate of Bush and Blair. They will wake up probably one day to the greatest act of murder in our life. Instead of helping they choose ignorance. Pity.

Trevor, Foley, , USA/AL

Europe is a sad case. Lost their religion, losing their population, the best and brightest leave, being outworked and surpassed by the rest of the world; giving their history and culture away to immigrants. Europeans are cowards. Very sad to see all this before my eyes. The cowards hoping that turning a blind eye to what they know is the truth deserve what they get. This former Marine will not advocate helping out when they need us (again).

Patrick, Ocala, FL, Florida, USA

I wish the public would focus their attention on the threat instead of blaming Blair and Bush for 600 years of hatred and 30 years of threats. If blame is what you are looking for, look at Jimmy Carter and the doves who didn't think the Iran Hostage crises was the first shot heard around the world. We should have taken Iran out in 1979 when we could have killed most of todays radical leaders when they were only students.

Edmund Scheffler, South Bend, USA/IN

Americans post here only because we want to believe that Britain has not yet joined the rest of Europe in living with their head in the sand, hoping appeasement of viscious, bloodthirsty savages will let them continue with their life of frivolity and hand-holding by the state.

As the posts here show, the inability to use logic in discernment is not just a European issue.

At least 900 years ago Europe would at least fight for their way of life and values against the Muslim invaders . Apparently the death of the monarchy's will lead to the death of Europe.

Joe, Columbus, Ohio

Have you been to the UK lately? London nearly has more Middle Eastern people than Anglos. Its the same with the Turkish flooding Germany. The war is already lost, the enemy has invaded, and already set its roots deep! The terrorists are integrated into all of the social networks. you don't believe me? Look at France, look at Amsterdam, look at Spain. All have already bent to the will of the Islamic tyrants

John, Santiago, Chile

Why is Western Europeans so hateful of Bush?

You have a lot to be proud of- horrible economies, double digit unemployment, Muslim immigration that has taken over France and soon the rest, and a lazy work ethic, no Christian religion, and no real armies to speak of.

My how the mighty fallen!!

Dan, Orlando, USA

I have to speak to liberals like one would speak to a child.
Bush is not the problem, terrorists are!

Maybe if we all behave like the coward FRENCH- then we might be safe? Not. Western Europe has lost to liberalism which started their decline in the '60s, and is about to lose to the Muslim onslaught. Good riddence libs!

Dan, Orlando, USA

Let's stop all this al queda/terrorist nonsense. The real threat is
global warming, wake up people, stop driving cars, flying airplanes
using water, using hydro and all the other energy sources that make our miserable lives more bearable. Let's put on long garments become muslims and pray 5 times a day. Perhaps then we can live in peace....or not.

bill kondor, Windsor Ontario,

Sebastian-

Don't you worry, mate, we Americans are watching the "global news" just as much as Euros or Aussies. In the process, we are watching the European decline implosion on a day to day basis. The unholy trinity of European Apathy and Anti-Americanism, unchecked Muslim Immigration and their failure to assimilate, and the lack of British/Euro will to exercise force in defense of the West are going to spell your doom, unless you right the ship quickly.

Vince, Fort Lauderdale, United States

You can not talk peace to the animals which will devour your children. Would you not beat them with a stick? The terrorist will come, not because of your alliance with Bush, but because you are not 100% Muslim. They feed on your weakness and on fear. They will behead your family while you watch. They are doing it now. They have no respect for any life.

Darren, Dallas, TX, USA

Too bad the translators translations are then translated by politicians and warmongers to feed the Bush/Blair propaganda machine.
The targets will be in Afghanistan and Iraq. They have plenty of American and British targets to kill (what would kill our spirits more than losing thousands of young soldiers in a day or two?), as well as NATO troops.
They do have chemical weapons, but the average civilian in England or the USA is not at risk. Just the poor Iraqi and Afghani civilians.
Don't buy the Bush /Blair war propaganda. After how all of this got started, can we really believe ANYTHING either of them, or members of their cabinet say?

Dee Houpt, Queen Creek, USA/AZ

Could it be possible that AQ are planning to take control of either North Korean or Iranian nuclear knowhow ? What would happen if they managed to actually steal any nuclear armourments ? The sad thing is that the western intel forces can never really know what is happening in North Korea or Iran.
Also this could simply be just propaganda from both sides. What do we simple laymen know what cat and mouse games are played between AQ and the intel forces globally.

Anthony Stevenson, Stockholm, Sweden

The most important aspect about this is how little real attention and seriousness the general public takes the Islamic threat. Britain may very well have reached the tipping point where it is already in thre islamic sphere and beyond restitution from becoming an Islamic country,like France.
Untill the west accepts that this is a life or death siruation and that all islam is the enemy the west will continue to lose ground to the jihadists and islamfascism.

Peter, Gloucester, Va,USA

No, we don't have "decent media" over here. This story in particular is no where to be found in the American media today. Since our media is entirely dominated by The Left, we're not likely to hear much about this until something blows up. Then The Left will spend hours/days of air time blaming GW Bush for allowing such an attack to occur.

We live in an upside down (and frightening) world.

David, Grand Rapids, MI, USA

Common, Common.

Your own article reads “no indication” this attack would specifically target Britain. Yet you head line Al-Qaeda ‘planning big British attack’

I though Bush and his retinue where the ones into fear mongering.

Apparently they are not the only ones

Ravi Abay, Colombo, Sri Lanka

9/11 was planned and executed by the Bushites, now Britain is going down the same route? All of this because they couldnt get their hands on Iraqui oil and the American economy is going down the pan. If there will be an attack of that scale , it will have been planned by Blair and Bush and it will pave the way for war with Iran. Have fun!

sarah, portsmouth, uk

I'd hate to be a Muslim dancing in the streets handing out candy after a large scale attack on the west. With our eyes in the sky the bombs will be raining on your heads.

mickey, Hartford, CT

Sadly most of the "global news" providers are more or less shilling for the enemy, BBC and CNN for example or so bias they might as well be Al Jazerra. Its hard to know what to take seriously.

Alex March, Seattle, Wa USA

Choose your poison: large scale terrorism involving mass casualties, or being slowly strangled by demographics and uncontrolled immigration?

Appeasement is a losers strategy.

Until the West wakes up to the Islamic threat at its doorstep, muslim radicals will continue to divide us and conquer.

Debra B., Birmingham, US/AL

@James

- Right, because we have really been doing a bang-up job over there in Iraq. Things have gone just as planned, and everyone is super-happy that we went over there.

jeff, Washington, DC

I am really quite shocked at all these comments regarding the US. You put the United States of America on the same level as rapists, suicide bombers and mass murderers? Whose only justification for their massacres are a hateful God - who states to punish all that are not muslim.

Wow, you all got some serious issues. It's a good thing you are not in control of our futures.

Todd, Detroit, MI

And Bush said that his War in Iraq would keep Al Qaeda bottled up in the Middle East. Wrong again.

Well, don't worry, after the next attack I'm sure Bush will find some other Third Party to go after.

In fact, he'll probably go after Iran, thereby destabilizing another major Middle East power.

Think this could be part of Al Qaeda's plan?

They've always been two steps ahead of the Moron from Crawford, so I wouldn't be surprised.

Mike, Chicago, United States

Sebastian, we don't have a lot of decent media and we're linked here via drudgereport.com often.

Adam, Minneapolis, MN, USA

Sebastian et al..personally I feel yes, if you want today's fluff news, US news is for you but for real, in-depth coverage of most anything I turn to the web and UK newssites. There are good US sites, papers, tv etc but 8 times out of 10 I find what US papers will print tomorrow on UK websites today.

Tom, New York, NY, USA

We're always targets: now, it is AQ funded by Iran; not too long ago, it was the IRA funded by the US.

Dennis, Clapham, UK

There is no al qaeda
911 was an inside job
If there is any terrorism, it will be from our governments.

Ian, Sturminster Newton, Dorset

This unsubstantiated, "leaked" crapola is nothing more than Blair taking a page from the Bush/Rove playbook. Tony hits hard times in the polls and can't leave his party screwed when he leaves office. So a "leaked" memo is released to distract the people from the latest scandal. Iran is thrown in since it is the target du jour for the neocon criminals (Next up!: Venezuala!)
Are you scared? Because you are supposed to be.

The Kooch, Indianapolis, USA

As to most of the commentors being form the US, perhaps it's because the US has the most people online? Especially as far as english speakers go.

Jim Bo, Raleigh, NC USA

We do not have a media outlet here in the US that delivers as much international news as the Times. Media in the US is largely focused only on news that occurs here or affects us directly. When I lived in the UK, I read the Times every day and I continue to find it the most reliable, informative news source readily available to those of us who realize there is a world outside of the US.

Carmen, Nashville,

John LaPorte said: "I have news for you, if the english speaking world does not fight to save Western Civilization, who will? Chirac and Royal?"
And his name is LaPorte. I believe that means TheFool in English, right? I doubt that Starbucks, Subway and Paris Hilton will save civilization, but I certainly hope somebody will.

JT, London, UK

From the looks of some of these comments (pulling out of Afghanistan as an answer...blaming CIA "false flag" operations for this info), I think I can say, "Just write Europe off." Enjoy your lives as dhimmis, Eurolibs.

Jack, Richmond, VA

It's the press's job to sort out whether we are being manipulated more by by Al Queda or by our own governments (USA or UK); sometimes it can be be hard to tell. Where are you, free press? The function of news organizations today seems to be to just repeat what ever line the government or terrorist organization hands out. Whatever happenned to investigative reporting? The only investigating they can handle today is what killed Anna Nicole (of which who cares). Brits and citizens of the US, quit carping at each other and realize who you *should b*e criticizing.

RJ Hendrickson, Angelus Oaks, CA, USA

British intelligence is becoming a contradiction in terms - and I am surprised that The Sunday Times is falling for such nonsense. Linking Al Qaida with Iran is a bit like linking Postman Pat with Ayman al Zawari.
Iran turning a blind eye to Al Qaida? Hmm, they're hardly doing that when their prisons are full of so-called Al Qaida suspects.
Will the ST stop insuring its readers, please.
I suppose next week we'll be reading how WMD having been found in Chipping Sodbury ... planted there by an Iraqi-Taliban-tap-dancing cell from Kosovo.

Mata Hari, London, UK

In response to Sebastian's comment (from Perth, Australia): You are correct. There is no decent media coverage in the US when it comes to the topic of terrorism. It is a taboo for the mainstream print media here. We have the hardest time getting pertinent terrorism-related information published. It is getting blocked!

NL, Nashville, TN

The History of the 20th century teaches us how two now discredited ideas - facism and communism took the world to the very brink of darkness. While we should never underestimate the sacrifice of the Western allies. It is ironic that it took the ruthlessness of a communist tyranny to break the back of the fascist tyranny. The Islamo fascists are ruthless and will stop at nothing. Who now has the ruthlessness to stand against them?

MD, Leeds, UK

Bush is king..............thank God For Bush!

Dion Jackson, silver spring, maryland

1. Withdraw from Iraq, but stay where the oil is (make it Kuwaiti protectorate or whatsoever - we know how to engineer this, don't we?)

2. Sell all Glocks etc. from Virginia gunstores to Shia & Sunni muslims in Iraq

3. Don't forget to stock up Israel, in case things get out of control

4. Watch them kill each other rather than us.

Ken, London, UK

Lots of Neval Chamberlain type talk over there " if we didn't back Bush maybe they would leave us alone!" If we didn't back Europe against the blood thirsty Nazi's maybe they would have "left us alone!" They planned 9/11 before Bush took office. Your next whether you like it or not.

pat, cocoa beach,

There is a great documentary called THE POWER OF NIGHTMARES by Adam Curtis which is very interesting and insighful on the situation in the Middle East. There is a torrent out there. Well worth a watch.

Mark Jameson, London, UK

There are a lot of Americans here, because this story was link on drudgereport.com

I hope that we don't let the Muslims take over here, the way they are beginning to do in France and Britain

Ra, The Florida Keys, U.S.

Hey Gary in Newbury Park,

Maybe we just don't give a damm!

Susan Jane, San Jose, California

Seeing all the skepticism from the Brits et al, I recommend no agency act on or investigate any portion of this story or claim. I think we should all just relax and take a 'watch and see' position. That's the best course of action.

Robert Tankenson, NY, NY

I, too, believe that it is a question of when, not if, in these cases. I don't know how to put an end to these threats, but I have to say I feel as threatened as any Brit, French, American when it comes to these warnings. Although living in a fairly low-risk country and city, I feel a strong bond to all these countries I admire and that we share such strong history with.

Unfortunately it has been proved several times over that there are people out there with horrible agendas, and I hope that we will be able to prevent any more attacks on us all.

Jonas Åstrøm, Oslo, Norway

The liberal DEMS of the USA are handing Iraq to the Terrorist which be used to fund attacks all over the world. This reminds me of Pre-WWII, we stood-by while a population was destroyed. The US House and Senate Democrats are so bent on power that they meet with the leaders of Syria and Iran, while De-Funding our US Troops at War. The terrorist have the DEMS support and are laughing at them the minute they leave the room. Pelosi and Ried are invested 100% in the USA's defeat in Iraq. God forgive us and our leaders we pray in Jesus Holy Name.

Darren, Dallas, TX, USA

What concerns me here in the UK is what was known as the "fifth column" during the 2nd World War,i.e. many sympathisers or likely sympathisers to Al Qaeda . I think that at some time in the future there will a type of localised unrest between muslims and white people in many of the cities were there is a high population of muslims. I fear what the future holds if it continues in the present direction ,that even without the threat of Al Qaeda to blow us all up.

Alan, Guildford, UK

Anyone read the book, "While Europe Slept.?" If you haven't perhaps you should put it on your TBR list. At the very least it's thought provoking.

Jackie Brown, St Louis, Mo. USA

It is easier for you Brits to blame everything on Bush than it is to blame your real enemy, which is al Qaeda. When are you going to finally get serious about your own national defense? They sense your weakness.

Bill, Nashua, USA

Listen, Michael Debham of Bedford, UK, if you think that the Middle East wants to have an agreement with you - good luck with that. Meanwhile, we're going to continue to stand up for freedom here in the US!

DP, Atlanta, GA, USA

The advanced European thinkers will once again be resigned to have to go begging to the uncivilized Americans to protect their Socialist behinds.....again!! Appeasement NEVER works. I just don't understand how the European countries, so rich with history and precedence, refuses to read that history and learn from their failures. Isn't the definition of insanity when you do the same thing over and over expecting a different result?

Vince, New Braunfels, TX

I find it interesting that the title of the piece includes a quote "planning big British attack" but then once you read the article it says there is no indication that this attack would target Britain. I'm not familiar with this paper...is it a right wing propaganda machine?

Also, if you are wondering about why us Americans have been commenting on your paper as of late it is probably because we are using Google's News service, or Drudge report which link to other news papers around the world for good stories...News is global now.

Alex Schultz, Los Angeles, CA

To the guy who said that Iraq shooting at US and UK aircraft was an act of war, actually, you have it the wrong way round. The No Fly zones were entirely illegal and unauthorised by the UN, so it was the regular US UK attacks on Iraq throughout the 90s which were multiple acts of war. The number of these attacks were deliberately increased during 2002 in order to provoke an action from Iraq that could be used as a justification for a full-scale attack on Iraq.

David Traynier, Colchester,

The more Socialist the Europeans become, the easier a target to Radical Islam. I hope their grandaughters enjoy their Burkas.

ET, New Iberia, LA

Seems that since the United Kingdom has decided to join the American Democrats and surrender to these maniacs, despite the sad fact that these imbecilic first century pupas see all western civilization as a culture of weakness not strength, I suppose all that's left for the you guys is to get together with the American Congress and follow the exquisite French strategies of the 1930/40s and round up all the Jews and delivery them to the death camps, no muss, no fuss -- American Senator Chuck Schumer has already volunteered to be the 21st century’s version of the Leichenkommando. The Irish are certainly second in line to be eliminated. Good work (not so) Great Britain.

Larry, Chelmsford, Massachusetts USA

Yes, we Yanks have to read the foreign press to get the full story.

This story, for instance, will not be covered by most US news outlets. The media here in the US does not like to "upset the children" (the same children who used to be CITIZENS).

Good luck in stopping your Radical cells in the UK----you're going to need it. Your Home Office is as impotent as our Homeland Security Dept

Harry Doulgas, Gettysburg, PA, USA

Andy,
We Americans do not need to re-write history, but read it. Those were Americans flying with the British that Mr. Churchill thanked. Those were American merchants being sunk by U-boats during the resupply of England, and those were tanks, guns, ammunition, etc being used by the English and stamped "Made in the USA," all before 1941. Oh, and your welcome for the whole Burma Road thing too - Flying Tigers!

We have always supported each other and fighting amongst ourselves only serves our enemies.

Michael, Washington, DC

I'm disappointed that Kevin from Texas hates us Europeans. I don't hate Americans. Not sure I'd get on very well with Kev though. In comparison with WW11 for the sake of accuracy Britain declared war on Germany as soon as they invaded our allies, Poland in 1939, just ask Basil Fawlty. America didn't join the party until 1942 and only after having been attacked by Japan. That's three years late. After 9/11 Britsh support for our American allies was as prompt as it had been in 1939.

Kilgallon, london,

It is easier for you Brits to blame everything on Bush than it is to blame your real enemy, which is al Qaeda. When are you going to finally get serious about your own national defense? After the shameful way members of your navy bowed and scraped before Iran, it no wonder al Qaeda is planning another attack. The sense your weakness.

Bill, Nashua, USA

Sebastian in Perth, you are right in the respect that the US media (I also believe) is more exclusionary when it comes to viewers comments. That is why you see so many Americans on the Times site. Go to any US media outlet, and you will not find any that allow the number, or unaltered comments that you see from viewers on this site.
Would anyone agree....that with greater immigration from other countries, it breaks down the nationalism of the host country there by creating a more favorable environment for radicals?

Mike Hermsen, Omaha, Nebraska/U.S.A.

There always seems to be some sort of Al Qaeda threat whenever one of our elected leaders is involved in some type of scandal. There is no Al Qaeda or at least, Al Qaeda are not the people that the media portray them to be. The whole thing is a scam to continue this so called war on terror. I'm sick of Bush, I'm sick of Tony Blair and I have had quite enough with the lobbyist group AIPAC.

Dion Jackson, silver spring, maryland

It's sickening to read some of the comments on this subject, blaming all terriorism on Bush/USA. Do you really think that the CIA was behind 911, Paris & London terriorist attacks? Radical Islam does not want to end Western interferience with their culture; THEY WANT TO DESTROY ALL OTHER CUSTURES. Wake up you and deal with the problem or westernm culture and your current way of life will be destroyed.

Keith, Albertson, NY/USA

Americans don't pay attention to global news. The only reason they are here is because a right-wing website (Drudgereport.com) linked to this article. A headline like this is sure to get the right salivating at the prospect of attacking Iran and offers self-justification for this illegal war in Iraq.

Michael, New York, NY

Kevin, Garland, USA/TX - your comments about WWII are ridiculous. The war took so many lives because the US feared stepping in when they should. The British gave everything they had. A World War not a European War.

Greg, Wiltshire, UK

When you kick a rattler, you'd damn well better be ready to pop that crittur otherwise it's goin' to bite you bad. You Brits had better wake up and realise you've got a rattler there and it ain't gettin' any quieter.

Jack, Two Dogs, Wyoming

To Sebastian in Australia, the reason this has so many American commentators is 1) there are more Americans on the internet than any other country and 2) it was posted to the Drudgereport. Anti-americans are the most ignorant people in the world. I'd say that hysteria aside, there is reason to be concerned after all they did attack London before from within and they have nothing against a large-scale attack.

Brent, Cambridge, MA USA

How is it we in Brtain lived through years of IRA terrorist attacks without losing vast amounts of freedom? Why are we so scared of a new breed of terrorist? The terrorists only win when we change to meet the threat. Accept the risk, carry on as normal, and wait until they come to the negotiating table, whilst making sure that the intelligence services have the personnel and skills to frustrate the worst plans. I am no longer living in a free country because of spineless polititians, not terrorists.

Jeremy Wickins, Sheffield, UK

The West, having spent decades screwing around in the hornets nest of the Middle East, will pay a price for such behaivor. Its PAYBACK time. We did this to ourselves. Look forward to attack after attack on the West and the destruction of our economies. Enjoy what your governments did in your name, you are all guilty not just America.

Greg, West Yellowstone, Montana.

Two things:

1. "the roman throne" sounds more like the vatican to me, and "a change in the head of the company" would refer to the new pope we got recently. And it claims there are "no indication" of a british attack so I can't see how they got England out of all that instead of the vatican.

2. Anybody else smell Dan Brown?

Rob, Pine Bluff, AR

And Tony Blair still firmly believes that he has made Britain a "safer place to live"! What a joke! The truth is he will go down in history as the UK's most dangerous prime minister. And he does he truly believe that once he has left Downing Street he will leave us begging for more? His "legacy" will put British lives at risk for several generations to come.

Caroline Kennedy, San Jose, Costa Rica

Do you think they will target Canary Wharf?

Victoria, London,

All this talk of creating another Hiroshima is just talk. They don't really mean it. Besides, if they mean it, well the British have been terribly mean to brown peoples in the past so what goes round comes around. Who wouldn't mind giving up their lives and their families just to even a score from 1192?

Hi-Ho. Ya want crumpets with that tea?

K. Rafferty, Santa Ynez, USA

Our media is horrible Sebastian.

Nick, Fort Collins, Colorado

It's only a question of when, not if, given the opportunity. It will end only when they no longer have the ability to try. And hidding or running will only provide further encouragement. They've made clear their goals, whether we like it or not.

peter a., san rafael, calif.

I'm confused. The headline says that Al Qaida is planning a 'big British attack' however the article says that 'there is “no indication” this attack would specifically target Britain' so which is it? Surely this isn't a thinly veiled attempt to justify further miltary buildup and prop up an unpopular policy that has proved to be nothing more than an abject failure thus far?

Iain, Paris, France

"The only impartial and unbiased news can be found on either Fox, Times Online or Sky News UK. "

Fox. Oh dear. Oh dear oh dear oh dear. You believe Fox is impartial and unbiased. Deary me.

Errrrrm. Anyway. I'm taking the Iranian twist of this report with a pinch of salt, but I don't see why I shouldn't take the rest seriously. Intelligence reports have been ignored before, with disastrous results.

starling, Lancaster,

You Brits are a strange lot - first you do all that fighting with the Nazis and then you give your country away to the muslims .

Arizona Mike, Glendale, Arizona

Appeasement has always worked in the past, right Michael D.?

Tom S., Syracuse, New York

Time has come to wake up - the West and particularly the so called "allies" like France, Germany, Italy and Japan need to pull their weight and send clear signals these monkeys - no more or we take you out.

Mark Conrad, Montreal, Canada

Writing from a small town in California. Unfortunately, Bush and Blair's lies have us where we cannot know what is real and what is not. I do believe that Islamic fundamentalism IS a threat to the west. The unnecessary war in Iraq has deflected our attention from this threat and with Bush and Blair so lacking in credibility - I fear a large scale terrorist attack is a matter of when , not if and will cause use to refocus on the true threat - not something like Saddam..

Allen Franklin, Fallbrook, USA/California

Right-wing reactionary drivel aside...

The timing does appear suspicious to me, but we'd all be fools if we thought al-queda/et al wern't planning some kind of plot. It's only a matter of time. Their strategy: divide via public opinion, break alliances/allegiances & conquer.

Seems like they've been successful with this approach to date.

Mike, St. louis, USA / MO

I won't disagree with Sebastian or Don....a little bit of column A and little of column B.

Have a nice day everyone.

JP, Detroit, USA, MI

What can you expect from terrorists, except more terror. That is who they are and what they do and anyone that thinks that it is some other country's fault is either stupidly naive or a sympathizer. This is not an area where you can sit it out on some safe fence post, having fish and chips. Time for all democracies to wake up and fight or be speaking Arabic soon.

ladyluck, orlando, florida,usa

YOu people are living with your heads in the sand. It does not matter if England is supporting teh US in Iraq or not, you would still be a target. Dont you realise? these people want the entire world to be Islam, not just the Middle East, and they will do what ever it take to accomplish their goal, even killing innocent people.

Roy Snyder, Fairmont, US, West Virginia

Sebastian: we in the US read media coverage from around the world because we want to know everything from every angle.

Pam, Northern Virginia, USA

Sebastian:

Yes. Many of us Americans find that the only way to gain a good perspective of what's occurring in the world is to read multiple news sources, many of them non-US ones.

Christopher, Boston, Massachuetts, USA

I find it interesting how a few of the commentators on timesonline seem to come from Australian... Is it maybe because they do not have decent media over there?

Frederick, Frederick,

This is nonsense. All this proves is that someone wrote an intelligence report connecting Al Qaeda to Iran. Baseless fearmongering propoganda.

We really need to insist that our media provide names and references for these claims, rather than simply citing "leaked intelligence reports."

Sean, Atlanta, GA

Ok, from reading this the comments we come to several conclusions. First, there is no terrorist threat. It is just fearmongering. No one is going to die, no one is going to be attacked and it's all the West's fault, particularly America's and Bush's. Then, we can see people complaining about Americans commenting on a British website. You mean the British press hasn't been critical of the US and we Americans shouldn't comment? Please. Finally, if an attack does happen, it's not big deal. What is wrong with these views?

James, Huntsville, AL, USA

The plot maybe more interesting if the clue about "shake the Roman throne" is real. Who sits on the "Roman" throne? The "Brits" do not sit on the Roman throne. Maybe it is a real threat against the Pope and a decapitaion strike against their old foe the Catholic church? Just a thought.

Gregory, washington dc,

I think the actual status and location of neuclear weapons is not really known. There have been neuclear warheads missing from the former Soviate Union. Pakastian has sold technical information. The US has sold military guidance electronics to Red China. It is difficult if not impossible to determine what the "black market" has done.
We have not had a major disaster because the opposing forces are like two kids where one is afraid and the other is glad of it.

Dave Brown, Warner Robins, GA

Great timing. Surprise! Just in time to distract from Blair's legal troubles. Folks, you're being manipulated with lies and fear.

bill zercher, Atlanta, Georgia

Sebastian - oy mate, it's probably because most of our news slants way too liberal. The only impartial and unbiased news can be found on either Fox, Times Online or Sky News UK.

Long live PM Howard!

Peter Hughes, Houston, USA

Don

After living in the USA (Los Angeles) for 22 years I can say without reproach that the general public have absolutely no idea about what is going on in the world unless it's on CNN.

People do not travel enough, are ignorant to other cultures and prefer to live in the coccoon called the U.S.A.

It's time to wake up and spread your wings and minds.

gary king, newbury park, CA USA

We do pay attention to what the weak link (Britain) is doing to preserve western civilization, becasue it is a precursor what we (USA) will soon face.

Dan, oviedo, Florida

Comments from the Us occur because you people are the sheep of the world. Our understanding of the enemy here is the same as WWII, Neville. You'd all be speaking German right now if it weren't for us.

Wilhelm, Berlin, Germany

The problem with people is that they think the time they are living in is the most important period of mankinds history. What a rubbish time it is for anyone to have to walk the earth, someone wake me up when the dark ages are over.

Anthony, London,

Why do so many Americans hate Europe? Remember what year the US joined both World Wars, anyone?

Ben, York,

just a note: one reason many of the american commenters make their way to the times website is because stories like these are linked heavily from neoconservative blogs and websites like www.drudgereport.com all in an attempt to contribute to the fearmongering propaganda that helps bush keep the support of the 32% here who actually do support him, hell or high water.

j sandy, philadelphia, pa

My god! I spent some time in Europe last year. There is only one type of media. Anti-American liberal crap. The BBC is considered conservative. In America there are so many points of view and options we are able to read and watch whatever we please and make up our own mind.

Unfortunately Europeans depend on the leaders for everything from healthcare to their thoughts.

Sean Johnson, Jacksonville, Florida

Sebastian, you're right. In America, we don't have decent media -- most news is left-leaning and implicitly (or otherwise) supports the terrorist cause.

James Beam, Philadelphia, PA

No-one has commented on the fact that the article says that 150 so called "Britons" left Britain to go fight against the coalition in Iraq and some of them have returned back to Britain. If the intelligence community "know" that 150 Britons did this, why have they let any of them back into the UK? If they know they were trained as "sleepers", why let them back in? We are supposed to be at war. British soldiers are dying and yet we allow known terrorist sleepers to enter the country? We have lost control of our borders entirely. No muslim leaving the UK should be allowed back in. Full stop.

john smith, manchester, uk

I would be interested in hearing what "agreement" Michael thinks the Middle East would be willing to accept? Perhaps Sharia law in the UK would be acceptable to both parties?

Brad, Attleboro, MA

"I find it interesting how the majority of commentators on timesonline seem to come from the US... Is is maybe because they do not have decent media over there?"

Sebastian, I think you've nailed it. U.S. media spends all it's time following the herd, or playing "he said - she said."

M.S. Gorham, Milledgeville, USA/GA

I wonder what the world would do without the USA. Maybe we should just isolate ourselves and let everyone defend themselves(including the UK). I bet it will not be long before the countries who do not stand by us will beg for our protection.

James, Melbourne, FL

Sebastian,

Americans have media, period. We like to see what you Brits think as well.

Robert, Tampa, FL

Given 9/11 and 7/7, I would say any threat should be taken seriously. It's not like it can't happen, we've all seen it...

Dean, montreal, Canada

Sebastian - perhaps Americans pay more attention to global news than the stereotype suggests.

Don, Petersburg, VA

Amen Malcolm. The left needs to be denounced and ridiculed constantly or they will march us down the path of our destruction. I have news for you, if the english speaking world does not fight to save Western Civilization, who will?
Chirac and Royal?

John LaPorte, Whitestone, New York

I find it interesting how the majority of commentators on timesonline seem to come from the US... Is is maybe because they do not have decent media over there?

Sebastian, Perth, Australia

Since there are no formal inks, just like Saddam and Al-Qaeda, I presume that Britain, and the rest of the world, will do nothing and go back to sleep.
Until the first bomb goes off...then they'll be angry at Blair and Bush!
Another decade or so and PM Bin Laden will have everything under control from London to Paris to Amsterdam.

Jim, NY, NY

sand to glass people, sand to glass!

e allen, Tampa, USA FL

So, what do you want? Large scale terrorism involving mass casualties, or being slowly strangled by demographics and uncontrolled immigration? The former possibly leading to Europe waking up and smelling the coffee. For the latter, look to the plight and numerical decline of non-Muslim minorities in countries such as Turkey or Egypt. Britain, France and Sweden lead the way in Europe: don't mention the jihad. Don't ever use the word "dhimmitude." Silence critics with Orwellian hate speech laws. When the feces hit the fan, don't tell me you didn't ask for this. I know very well that this will not be published; what is it, "hate speech"? "Racism"? What race is Islam?

Ken NIelsen, Aarhus C, Denmark

If we were not in Iraq, Afghanistan, and behind the US we would not be a target.

It's time we pulled out of the alliance with Bush and came to an agreement with the Middle East.

Michael Debham, Bedford, UK

Looks like we can expect yet another false flag terrorist attack from al-CIAda.

Timmy, Gloucestershire, England

When that bomb goes off in Britain we in the United States will lecture you about the sickening appeasement of Iran and Islamic nutjobs in the UK.

We acted after 9/11. You Brits think sticking your head in the sand and not fighting the threat of Islam around the world, and even in Britain itself, is the answer.

You will soon discover that it doesn't. Ask Neville Chamberlain what kissing Hitler's bottom did for the world.

Alexander Alt, Los Angeles, United States

Funny how this appears just after the police report into the Cash for Honours scandal is submitted to the CPS. Just a co-incidence I am sure...

Couple that with the implosion of the Bush presidency, and you have the perfect cocktail for another "terrorist attack" to keep the wheels of the Empire turning.

The only shocking thing about the comments on this site is the abject ignorance of those who do not understand the very real, and very serious threat to our liberties that our present government and that of GW Bush represent.

Casting aside the - proven - fact that Al Qaeda was a creation of western intelligence in the first place, what makes any of you mass media brainwashed would-be Nazis so sure that this propaganda is anything more than a justification for the long planned NUCLEAR war on Iran.

Perhaps the recent statement by Vladimir Putin about the US attempt to create a "unipolar world order" might open your sleepy eyes a little.

Ryan Lavelle, London,

I see many of the people, out there thinking this is just made up for ulterior motives live far from London and the areas of our country being taken over by radical islam (its happening on many levels.) The threat is real. living in Exeter or other far flung places enables (eg wayne geddes, v.p. land, exeter, u.k.) allows the luxury of illusion that its just Govt propaganda. believe me its not.

rikrok, East London, UK

"The intelligence report also makes it clear that senior Al-Qaeda figures in the region have been in recent contact with operatives in Britain."

This can't discounted. However, it is a disturbing news to know that there are many Al-Qaeda operatives in UK. So it is better to identify them and their supporters and punish and deport them where possible.
Regards,

Krishna R. Kumar, Udupi, India

Eric, San Diego from CA opines "So much for keeping the 'fight' in Iraq. When are people going to realize that almost everything the neo-conservative extremists say is false"


Forgotten about 11/9/01 already Eric? Or how about the embassy bombings in 1998? Or how about the first WTC attack in 1993?

General comment;

How quick the loony left is to appease the islamofascists, yet they'd be the first agaisnt the wall (see Iraq!), as these Dark Age primitives seek to impose a new night on us all.

It is time the gloves came off for real and our intell and Spec Ops forces let loose on a campaign of assassination of poilitcal sympathisers, financiers, bombings safe houses, training areas, indoctrination centres etc whereever they may be.

Te only way ot beat asymmetric (ak 4th generation) warfare is to use those methods our selves.

Malcolm, London, UK

"a par with Hiroshima and Nagasaki"

I don't like living next to Heysham nuclear power station ...

Yes, I AM worried. It's quite obvious these people will stop at nothing, and that it's pretty easy to organise something. The country's security people can't think of every single possibility.

Hooray for Bush, Randy? There are people who think that 9/11 wouldn't have happened without Bush. You do know that he ignored reports of an imminent attack, don't you? And they were pretty specific reports too.

I don't want to be in Britain anymore, I want to go live in a country that isn't shouting "woohoo!" and waving a red flag at the bull that is Islam extremists.

starling, Lancaster,

After reading most of the comments by US contributors (not all though), I am left with the opinion that they take their C in C's view - "if you are not with us, then you are against us".
This type of attitude is why US foreign policy is responsible for anti American feelings around the globe. It would seem that if we do not support the US 100%, and if we question any of it's decisions, then we are ridiculed by them and labelled "terrorist appeasers", or cowards.
Who are the fundamentalists? Surely the US with their unswerving globalist policies and right wing Christian driven ideas would fall into this category, just as Iran under an Islamic theocracy would fit the bill.
Those Americans who refer to Winston Churchill, would be well advised to remember his words - "it is better to jaw jaw than war war" Those Americans who point to the second World War, should remember that the US did not become involved until 1941 (unless you want to rewrite history of course),

Andy, Rochester, England

In 18 months we will know who the next President of the US will be and someone else will be taking Blair's position soon. Who will the conspiracy theorists blame for an attack if both countries leadership has changed to the other party?! Who blew up the trains in Spain? Who blew up the trains in the UK? Who flew the planes on 9/11? Apparently some people believe it was MI5 and the CIA!

To suggest that a nuclear weapon will be set off by a western government in one of it's own cities to start a war with the tiny country of Iran, that would kill 10's or 100's of thousands of their own people in a major western city and destroy the economies of Great Britain, the EU, and the US for years or decades to come, is absolutely beyond crazy! The insanity that is showing itself in the posts about this article is mind boggling!

Big Ivan, Phoenix, AZ, USA

More right-wing paranoia - welcome to 1984.

tomk, Hayward,

More "the enemy is in Iran! bomb Iran now!" bilge.

The BushBlair war has been a boon for recruiting of small-scale terrorism world-wide. They certainly have no need for a 'spectacular' attack; but the neocons & the Israel-über-Alles true believers certainly need something to scare the restive Brits & Americans back into line.

John, Phoenix,

The British people will not retaliate against British Muslims as pointed out. A few knuckleheads may start a few fights but generally British people are wimps.

I hope that everything that is possible is done to ensure that this suggested attack doesn't take place, and that some "intelligence errors" are not commited that will result in ammunition against a war in Iran.

If we nip this one in the bud then a lot of future problems can be avoided.

Alex, Southampton,

Firstly, the problem people are have with this warning is like that of the boy who cried wolf. Unfortunately, the bearers of the threat lied to us in the past and then refused to admit it, even in the face of hard evidence.
Secondly, both UK & USA have used the spectre of imminent attacks to curtail the freedoms of their own nationals.
The really scary thing is that this latest threat may be real but due to the damaged reputation of our security services, people are sceptical and may not heed the warnings. I also find it difficult to see that Sunni and Shi'ites are somehow working in parallel in Iran, when they are blowing each other to pieces every day in Iraq, supposedly with the full support of Iran.

Yosemite Sam, wirral, England

'We're all gonna die,' as Billy said in "Predator."

Jerk, bay area, CA USA

britain is asleep' if one is to read the comments. while some of your soldiers are fightiong for your lives in iraq and afghanistan, its easy to blame israel and the mossad and the americans rather than face the truth, that you are at war. i think that alot or even the majority of britons blame israel for the bloodshed. well i hope those arab fanatics will succeed in their plot, maybe when london is attacked and severly damaged, maybe when people start to die by the hundrends, maybe then london like new york and tel aviv before her will awaken to face the harsh reality.

ek, rishon le-zion, il

The same Liberals who cry "there is no threat, why does Pres Bush go to War" are the same ones who would immediately blame him for not doing enough as soon as another attack comes our way.

You can never please everyone, especially the "useful idiots". They say, America is just going to make them angrier. Bunch of wimps. And I am glad that Bush has the leadership to see to it that America HAS NOT been attacked since 9/11. Imagine that, results that matter. Not a bunch of hot air, which is what we got from your boy Clinton for 8 years of doing absolutely nothing about terrorism in the world. Hooray for Bush!!

Randy Anderson, Durham , NC

I've said it before: the threat from the Islamist radicals is real, it predated both Blair and Bush, and it will last beyond them. The West and its allies must get our collective wits together to become united in purpose to confront and defeat this threat eventually. Obviously, we need to sort out the good from the bad in the fractious Muslim world. And that's not an easy thing to do. But this paranoid nonsense that the threat is being concocted by power-hungry Western leaders needs to end. It's an absurd falsehood that does none of us any good.

Scott, Indiana, USA

Murph said: "Have any of you ever put any thought to maybe...just maybe...thats the reason why there have been so few attacks against western countries since the invasion? Could it be that the willing suicide bombers, and the pray and spray gunmen of al-qaeda, have opted to stay closer to home where they can attempt to fufill their twisted crusade against the "great satan"?"

Uh, NO Murph, this cannot be the case! This article, if true, is stating quite clearly that Al Qaeda is going to detonate a nuclear device in Britain. So much for keeping the 'fight' in Iraq. When are people going to realize that almost everything the neo-conservative extremists say is false, and furthermore destabilizing the earth's political balance?!

Eric, San Diego, CA

It is true that some people want to rule the world and accomplised what their fathers couldn't do.well Idon't blame them I only blame the appeasers.

peter udo, tokyo, japan

My initial reaction, albeit somewhat primordial, is to blast them off the face of the earth. WHACK!. So now my intellectual reasoning surfaces but I arrive at an conundrumI. How does one reason with circular reasoning? Islam is Evil? The West is Evil? Israel is Evil? Christians are Evil? and so on etcetera. ARGH! One can get batty in the mind considering opinions of the MAD! The pool of opinions is never ending. But there is TRUTH! Who shall we listen to? Where are The two witnesses to substantiate the WORD?. For me and my family, I will believe in HIM who formed that which had no substance into what we now stand upon. My mind is clear, my heart is convinced. And my faith is unwavering. What about you? It is time to make your eternal decision. HE proved HIS unwavering commitment. Will you?

Greg, Kansas City, USA/MO

The comments here that blindly and shrilly seek to blame Western governments, Jews, capitalists, imperialists, etc. for what is, in many ways, a rather calm-sounding article bespeak societies in fear; almost in panic. For people living in a state of fearlessness do not suddenly become almost hysterical at the threat of an attack even if that threat is reported in a credible source such as The Times. People who are not afraid will look at this report and say, “Yes, it may be as it says; it may also not be—intelligence reports are like that. And even if it was, there is a whole context we are missing here. Other reports we have not seen. There is probably more to this.” A people who do not have a fear complex do not immediately start spouting conspiracy theories.

During the Blitz, Londoners were greeted every day with a sign that asked them to “Keep Calm and Carry On.” Seeing the (anything-but-calm) comments on this thread makes me think that it’s well past time to dust off the cobwebs from those signs. If this report is accurate, there is nothing you or I can do about this and hysterics will not help. So—let’s keep calm and carry on.

Inna Tysoe, Sacramento, CA, USA

Almost 3600 coalition troops killed in Iraq.
During WWII
The US had 500,000 soldiers killed (most whom were drafted) all because of inaction and pacifism by the British and French.
Great Britan - 326,000 soldiers and 62,000 cvilians killed.
France - 340,000 soldiers and 470,000 civilians killed.

Failure to stop aIqada now will result in the same types of numbers. 3600 may seem like alot but consider the total deaths above. After the backlash we have been getting from the Europeans for Iraq, never will I want to see any Amercian Miltary Personnel be killed defending Europe for their lack of vision. As far as I am concerned alqada can have Europe. I hate Europeans as much as they hate US

HISTORY DOES REPEAT ITSELF
Sadam was not responsible for 911 but after 911 his refusal to comply with armistace from first Gulf War-Kuwait (over 20 UN resolutions), and shooting at our planes on a daily basis, his actions had to be taken seriously. Shooting at our planes WAS an act of war

Kevin, Garland, USA/TX

Some Americans on this forum display the type of ignorance one would expect of a country run by media moguls who refused to show the BBC documentary "The Power of Nightmares", for fear that the truth would lose them advertising revenues.

The article above is useless. Any article citing un-named sources is useless, they shoudln't be run and should be treated as politically expedient propaganda pieces, which is exactly what this one is.

To the guy who claims bin ladens son is in Iran, the burden of proof is upon you to show that this matters in any way whatsoever, no one else.

There are jihadists out there with an anti-western ideology, that much is certain. The claim that they are part of a worldwide, organised system of cells, ready to strike at any time has been shown to not only be a myth, but one engineered by the very neo-cons chomping at the bit to attack Iran.

I'd encourage some of our American posters to switch off Fox News and do some reading.

Alan, Glasgow,

I didn't really believe that there were people so self righteous and deluded by their socialist agenda to actually believe that the Bush government and the CIA, which these people would have us believe are so "stupid and incompetent", could actually engineer a conspiracy of the scope outlined by this guy from the left coast. People's stupidity and cowardice apparently knows no bounds.

Dave Goin, Phuket , Thailand

The fact that Bush & Co. are dishonest and incompetent doesn't mean that Al-Qaeda's not out to get us.

Stan Jones, Anchorage, AK

To those that say Al-Qaeda was'nt in Iraq until the U.S. invaded. You're probably right! However since then, every mid easterner who wanted a first or second career as a jihadist has flocked there to take shots at Americans and other Westerners. Have any of you ever put any thought to maybe...just maybe...thats the reason why there have been so few attacks against western countries since the invasion? Could it be that the willing suicide bombers, and the pray and spray gunmen of al-qaeda, have opted to stay closer to home where they can attempt to fufill their twisted crusade against the "great satan"? You know...like bugs to a light. Where I hope we continue to mow them down for your sake and mine.

Murph, Madisonville, USA/KY

It's obvious that the Iraq war is what caused 9/11. I mean, the best thing to do is find out what we did wrong to make these nice people want to take over the world since 600AD.

david, baton rouge, la

Very clever of the US and Brit intelligence to have orchestrated "false flag" operations in Indonesia, Thailand,
Nigeria, India ,Sudan, Algeria, Afghanistan, New York, Pakistan, Israel, Russia, Chechnya, Philippines, Spain,Egypt,Bangladesh,Saudi Arabia,Ingushetia, Dagestan, Turkey,Kabardino-Balkaria, Morocco, Yemen,Lebanon,France, Uzbekistan,Gaza,Tunisia, Kosovo, Bosnia, Mauritania, Kenya, Eritrea, Syria, Somalia etc...etc...let alone to have fabricated a consistent history of 14 centuries of this.

Too bad there are people too frivolous, and too dangerously unsound-minded to recognize the obvious when it is staring them in the face.

Leave it to someone else to provide the abundant links between Al-Qaeda and Iran. No connection between the two as if they couldn't work together for ideological reasons? That claim is the equivalent of the claim that Al-Qaeda could not work with Saddam Hussein because he was "secular"--although he had a Koran printed with his own blood.

Ted B., Santa Cruz, California

It appears that there are still morons out there that think that 9/11 and 7/7 were staged. Just like the moon landings.

greg hall, athens, georgia

Most of the conspiracy posts are by people who don't do any personal research. Al-Queda and the militant Islamists don't wan't Democracy. They want Sharia-Islamic Law. One situation that lit Osama Bin Laden's fuse on militant Islam was when Saudi Arabia sought the help of the US to remove Saddam's occupying military in Kuwait. Perhaps many of the conservationists would be interested to learn about Iraq's torching of all the oil fields and blowing up the oil platforms off the Kuwait coast upon fleeing back into Iraq. That created an enviromental catastrophe which lasted for years after. In Iraq now you are seeing the result of the Shi'a Muslims having a voice after 30 years of brutal oppression under Saddam. This threat is real. The militant Islamists have a dsproportionate voice, and terrorize the more moderate Muslims. The US foreign policy is a factor. But Western liberal lifestyles are un-acceptable to most Muslims. This means no alcohol, drugs, homosexuality, music, etc

BL, LA, US

Nathan; the US leadership has said Iraq was linked to AQ and 9/11 (hence their reasoning for the Iraq war). Continually. Only recently has that rhetoric died down, but even then Cheney said it again in the last month or so.

richard dows, louth, UK

At some point the United States, Russia, and China along with the other 5 smaller nuclear powers will be forced into an anti-jihadist nuclear alliance.

Iran along with their terrorist allies do not fear on an individual basis the United States, nor do they fear Russia or China however a combined alliance along with the will to take whatever means are necessary - to stop Atomic Jihad - will be seen as the ONLY tool available to save the civilized world from utter chaos

It is precisely the risk of other large countries reactions and unforeseen consequences if and when one nuclear power actually used nukes against a Jihadist, however when all such nations are forced to be on the same side of the table - that risk will be removed

Power will need to be met with power, the unthinkable will become the thinkable, because the alternative - basically every single major city in the world at the mercy of Jihadists and their newly acquired nuclear bombs - will be much worse

James H, Washington DC, United States

Ok, calm down. I agree that this report was probably leaked for political purposes. I understand the "peerages" scandal is rather large right now. Nevertheless, Iran will support sunni militants. I.E, Hamas. Iran is a rational opponent that fully realizes they are America's arch enemy, and therefore an enemy of the anglo-american atlantic alliance. Iran wants our military to stretch to thin and retreat. This would allow Iran to fill the void in Iraq and support an ally in afghanistan. This enables Shia Iran to use Sunni militants to take control of the middle east. IN addition they cooperate with Sunnis in Iraq and have them attack shia, so they can incite Shia. Iran is a battle tested wise foe. Do not disregard them based on your wikipedia understanding of the sunni-shia conflict. It is all just excuses for power grabs, as is Islamic Radicalism. The most outwardly religious are almost always serving alterior motives. Thanks for reading and be nice.

Brandon, Houston, Texas/ United States of America

Winston Churchill would weep. Apparently, his decendants are now made of sugar candy.

Crashlander, Kansas City, Kansas

Holy Cow!
Was this story linked to all the conspiracy theorists/crackpot websites out there?
I think all the nutters out there are becoming scarier than Al Qaeda.

Mary Catherine, Elmhurst, US/IL

Well this article certainly brought the looney tunes out in droves didn't it?

Dave, Dallas, TX, USa

The biggest threat to world stability is the global jihad occurring right now. I am amazed and disgusted at the responses by the loony left. Not a day goes by without radical muslims preforming some horrible and deadly act. Just last week three Christians were beheaded in Turkey at a Bible factory. Seven Christians were beheaded in the Philliphines. Hey left-wing nut jobs, do you remember the Madrid, Bali and London bombings? 9/11, the first bombing of the WTC in 1993, the bombing of the USS Cole, the bombing of Khobar Towers, the bombing of the US Embassies in Kenya and Tanzania. The Beslan school massacre. The enemy of my enemy is my friend. Al-Qaeda and Iran are working together.

Joe, New York, NY,

this is a load of garbage intended to create another excuse to implement more coercive laws againsts the citizens. Just like 9/11 and 7/7, most if not all of these so-called terrorist strikes are staged by the machivellian arm of the respective governments to instil fear as well as to attempt to justify more spending on military and homeland security areas while neglecting more humanitarian programs. The phony war on terror is just like the proverbial three dollar bill.

Jermaine Holder, Kingston/ Jamaica,

Some of us aren't naive any more. Obviously this "nuke" threat is just to get people preped to blame Iran and support a war against them on Israel's behalf. The killing of 3,000 Americans on 9-11 by Bush, Cheney, and the Mossad was treason. But to do a false-flag nuke attack is beyond the pale. It is so outrageous that the UK and US people planning this phoney attack need to know they will never be forgiven. The will not get away with it. We will not support war against Iran, we will scream for the blood of the true perpetrators instead.

William, OC, California USA,

Some interesting comments above, but the jaded cynicism is running a bit thick, me thinks. Take the report for what you will, even dismiss it entirely. But please don't kid yourselves that there aren't groups of very intelligent individuals out there who's lives utterly revolve around making these 'big attacks' happen. The 'grunts' are off to Jihad in Iraq, the current magnet for your basic holy warrior, depriving the Iraqi population the freedom they deserve. Your hardcore SS type jihadists, analogy entirely meant, are indistinguishable from your average businessman in any city around the world. They've got technology and money and a very good network. They've learned a lot over the past 10 years and are ready to ratchet things up another notch. Who's going to give more than a month or two of news at another Spain or London type bombing. Ho hum. They Have to do something big, or just like last years movie, album or sitcom, the whole world will forget about them... Gary

Gary T., Aliso Viejo, US

This story is a pure fabrication published in order to incite fear in the population. Don't believe a single word of it.

wayne geddes, v.p. land, exeter, u.k.

I pray for you nut jobs. You are lost in your own form of reality/insanity. Never in my life have I seen so many people believe wrong is right and right is wrong.

Winston Churchill said something to the effect that you can fool all the people some of the time, some of the people all of the time but you can't fool all the people all the time. It appears he may have spoken too soon.

It appears that the truthers would rather believe that their own government would blow up its own citizens, plant invisible explosivies throughout one of the busyiest buildings in the world. Tell lie after lie to the most independent media in the history of the world and not have any of this major operation become public knowledge for what 6 years now. These nutjobs would rather believe this is more possible than say 19 individuals in secret backed by their faith in their God carry out a sucessful military attack that kills 3000 innocent people.

Good God people get some help.

Bill, Mercer, PA

There will not be an attack. At some stage in the near future the police, with full media cover, will “round up the usual suspects”, Tony Blair will then say that in view of the dangerous security situation now would not be the right time for him to step down. After a few days the “usual suspects” will be quietly released, and six months later everyone will have forgotten the whole episode. The only explosion will come from Gordon Brown yet again denied the keys to number ten.

John, Liverpool, England

small fact check.....most people believe Hezbollah (through backing from Iran and Syria) was responsible for the bombing of the Marine barracks in Lebanon....The Kobar towers are linked to Al Queda, a bunch of Saudis and was believed to have been sponsored by Iran and authorized by Ali Khamenei himself (leader of Iran at the time). I think you meant to say Iran and stated Iraq instead.....both worthy facts....but we have an obligation to make sure our information is accurate as possible.

JD, Belleville, IL, USA

The goal of Islam is to unite. Looks to me like they may succeed. Sure there are different kinds of Islam and sure Iran had nothing to do with 9-11 and other bad things, but it looks like they want to play now. The goal of Islam is looking good.

Sam, chicago, il

alqaeda ls present where muslim lives.That is what zawahari says, It is good to not ignore the warning,It,s not what ali says,Iran is the aunt of alqaeda.We know binladen son lives in tehran,not to mention what iranians engaged in Iraq,

gold, sf, us

Iran no ties with Al Queda? Show proof. Saif-al-Adel, a notorious al-Queda operative, has, technically, been living under house arrest in Teheran since fleeing to Iran in late 2001 with hundreds of other al-Qa'eda fighters following the US-led coalition's invasion of Afghanistan.

For the past five years he has been living in a Revolutionary Guards guest house in Teheran together with Saad and Mohammed bin Laden, two of the al-Qa'eda leader's sons.

Until 2003, al-Adel acted as bin Laden's security chief and since his arrival in Iran he is understood to have struck up a close personal relationship with several prominent Revolutionary Guards commanders.

You Al Queda supporters and UK/America haters just continue your proof-free denials. Just keep saying that all the intelligence is made up to support massive conspiracies by Blair/Bush. If you say it long enough, you and your ilk will really believe it. Oh, and we never landed on the moon either.

Terry, Sacramento, USA / CA

Hey, if you Brits don't want to believe this report, fine with us in the States. After all, according to this report, the Islamic Facists will be vaporizing a British city, not an American one. If it turns out to be true, you'll have to deal with the consequences, not us. Perhaps you can parlay your automatic hatred for America into a special relationship with Al Quada. Good luck with maintaining your liberal Western Democracy with these guys.

Buz Stanley, Ridgeland, MS/USA

One can see war with Iran due to Iran swiching to the euro for its oil exports just like saddam did before he was removed rom power...one wonders is opec will soon swich to the euro and if this is so economic meltdown will be assured yetone can not see the west standing on the side lines and let this hapen..JTAC and i know this to be so and will act in the best economic interest of Britian and her allies....(excluding france) and if any more attacks are perpatrated by muslims in britian one can forsee a massive backlash in relation to the muslim population due to the british people having had enough of uncontrolled imagration and murders and plots by muslim extremists.

sir walter covendale, LONDON, GREAT BRITIAN

Tally up the score, please. Number of earthquake victims helped, number of tsunami victims helped, number of nations freed from tyranny, number of ruthless murdering dictators dispatched, number of jobs created worldwide by consumption of imported goods, number of lives saved with medicines. Face it, folks, when there is trouble, nobody ever asked why the Americans didn't do more.

Yes, the US did drop atomic weapons in Japan, thus saving far more lives (estimated) than it cost. Does the US always get it right? No, and we're not proud of that. But the next time you need help with an epidemic or other crisis, maybe you'd like to try Russia, or France, or Brazil, or China.

Maybe the difference is that every time we want, desperately, to say, "FU!" we don't, even if it would be justified. So many other countries say it so often it makes my heart cry.

Brian, Riverside,

This article seems far fetched. Unlike retards in this forum who believe in conspiracy theories, I believe the terrorist threat is real and must be taken seriously.

Wahabi, Toronto, Canada

This isnt a war of wits. Al-Qaeda was not in Iraq untill after the US invasion. Bin Laden and Saddam, and Iran hve all ben supported by the CIA to maintain destabilzation in the region while courting Saudi Arabia. Mabye we are getting our just desserts? This is about global empire. Iraq was created by you Brits, for empire. Democracy? Whats a democracy? Bush, Clinton, Clinton, Bush, Bush, Clinton?
Govner Bush. Senator Clinton. Kennedy. We have our own version of royalty here too. Not to mention the Terminator!
You have 3 choices: vote for the person the media picks, vote for the other person themedia picks, vote for someone noone else votes for.

mike, St. Petersburg, Fl, USA

You have very narrow views and obviously don't understand many things. Go outside the US and learn.
1. Saying Sunni or is Shiite doens't matter. Many countries these two live side by side and fight together. Even where they differ in ideology, ever heard "enemy of my enemy is my friend."
2. Iran has no motive to attack anyone.......personal (as in country) power, to dominate a region.....that's not a reason. Not to mention hatred of Isreal and anyone who is their ally.....no reason?????
3. Leaked stories are more bull than anything, agree there, but it isnt to convince anyone should be attacked. It's people searching for news that isn't there and trying to make money selling newspapers. Has some to do with the tinfoil hats that people wear.
4. Nobody has ever said Iran has anything to do with 9/11 or 7/11. But off course nobody said Iraq did 9/11 either but people keep saying someone said it.
5. Radical Islam is to take over world, even if we leave they will come sooner or later.

Nathan, Doha,

After reading this news article and the comments following, all I can ask is one question. Where did all this PARANOIA come from. Oh yeah, thats right, that's how the radicals on both sides gain power.

On one side, we see individuals who visualize terrorism under every rock, and on the other side we have people who deny the existence of radical islam. As usual, the truth is probably in the middle somewhere.

I especially get a crack out of the wierdo conspiratists who view thier own government as the greatest evil (on both sides of the pond). These are the same people who insist thier government is too stupid to use the restroom, but somehow they are smart enough to engage in a long term conspiracy to conquer the world for the war-mongering industrial complex (or zionists, or nazis, or insert evil of your choice). Complete fodder for the weak minded.

May we find an equitable solution for the radical islam problem before the radicals gain power at our expense.

Paul, Lubbock, TX

To defeat the islamic attack on the West, we will have to inflict massive casualties on Muslim civilians.

This is what had to be done to defeat Nazi Germany and militarized Japan. There are many leftist-idealist who simply cannot get this point.

And, while it is clear that the Iraq invasion is a failure in many, many ways, the creation of conditions that ensure Muslim casualities is one aim that has been achieved.

The result: Around the world, senior Muslims with clear minds have been working hard to get Muslim attackers of the West to desist, knowing as they do that another 9/11 will lead to more Muslim civilian casualities.

Bozo, Berlin, Germany

Wow, are the people who read news on this site all idiots as it seems?

It's no accident that a 9/11 attack hasn't happened in a while. They know that the US and UK aren't going to absorb the attacks like the US did throughout the 90s and not do anything in response.

So they saving their wad for something truely devastating to make the response "worth it"

And for anyone who thinks for a second that the Shiite/Sunni divide is enough to keep Iran and others from cooperating then you are simplistic and should keep from embarrasing yourself in the future.

Vince P, Chicago, USA

I don't know what's more frightening, re-living the naiveté of the 1930s almost 100 years later, witnessing utter ignorance wrapped in repulsive arrogance, or the actual threat terrorism faces people of all nations. Germany, France, Sweden, Denmark, had nothing to do with Iraq. Spain fled Iraq. All face the threat of terrorists and radical Muslims within their countries. Meanwhile, you euros continue to blame yourselves first and perpetuate the anti Semitism that gave rise to the holocaust and feeds people like the Iranian leader. Reading these comments is as unbelievable as reading tabloids in the check out aisle.

Jason Malcolm, III, Cork, Ireland

Let's see here "Iraq never attacked anybody". Hmmm, guess the bombing of the Marine barracks in Lebannon and the Kobar Towers in Saudi were "right wing extremists from Montana". As for Al Queda not being in Iran or the Iranians not having anything to do with them. Iranian Revolutionary Guard security officers who have defected to the West have not only placed Al Queda operatives in Iran, but when UBL fled Afghanistan, it wasn't to the fringes of the Pakistan border. He followed his son and other family members into Eastern Iran, driving through the border crossing in Jeeps and Land Rovers, where he was protected by a full company of Revolutionary guards during his stay.. Guess the Iranian leadership didn't know about that?

Richard, Bullhead City, Arizona/USA

Eric,

Seems to me that the Muslims have a saying, the enemy of my enemy is my freind. Iran wants to be acendant and they are not as vested in peace in the region as you would like to think. If they were they wouldn't be pursueing such a suspicious course with their nuclear program, they'd want it transparant just like we want it transparant.

The simple fact is they are not being transparent with it, and that causes me to doubt their sincerity in wanting peace. Taken in conjuction to what they tell their own people, it forces me to consider Iran a real threat that is growing. Keep in mind that President Abenejad(sp) has said on numerous occassions that he intends to destroy Israel. Now if those are the words of someone who wants peace, you and I have very different definations of peace.

The bottom line is Iran looks at the United States as an upstart nation and are just looking for a way to take us down. That's the score.

Dean, Joplin, MO

Eric wrote:

"WHAT A BUNCH OF BALONEY THIS IS! ARE YOU KIDDING ME? Let's put a stop to this nonsense right now.

"1. Iran has nothing to do with Al Qaeda. Iran is a predominately Shiite muslim population, and members of Al Qaeda are traditionally Sunni. "

Hitler and Stalin signed a secret pact to carve up Eastern Europe and eventually the world. This, dispite that fascism took hold precisely to defend Europeans from the Communists. Only once Hilter had secured an easy victory against France and had England on the ropes did he turn against his fellow psychopath.

This logic is typical of the left, mouthing platitues rather than looking to history. To respond at that level, well haven't you heard "The enemy of my enemy is my friend."?

USA is the Great Satan, England and Britian are Little Satans. Sunni vs. Shiite takes a back seat. Remember that Bin Laden disapproved of starting an Iraqi civil war, it was Al-Zacquwari who didn't listen.

-- Legalize

Legalize, New York, NY

The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was inspired by a scenario drawn out years before by US Colonel Billy Mitchell, an early advocate of air power.

It is far more logical to think that terrorists were inspired by war-gaming than to concoct a conspiracy theory that somehow British authorities were involved.

Another example of such coincidences can be found in the crossword puzzle that ran just before D-Day in which several classified operational terms, such as landing area names, were used.

Ralph M. Sherman, St. Clair Shores, Michigan USA

The majority of comments I have read here are appalling. It is unbelievable that people can be so ignorant and arrogant at the same time. If you believe Al Qadea does not exist, then chances are, you and your country (which you apparently hate) will someday be destroyed with a nuclear weapon by the "imaginary enemy" that you do not believe exists. If you truly believe that the US and UK were responsibe for 9/11 and 7/11, why dont you leave these countries and move to Iran, Syria, or North Korea? Since these countries are not tyrannical dictatorships, but rather honest, open, and peaceful places, they should welcome you with open arms. Please do this so that you will no longer have to "suffer" in a democratic govt that protects you and your (ignorant) speech even when you dont deserve it. If you all only knew what is truly going on in the world, and not believe what is spoon-feed to you by newspapers, tv, and conspiracy theory web-sites. You people are crazy.

LR, Nashville, USA

Could the possible date and location of the attack be leaked? That way, all the 'False Flag Ops', 'Conspiracy of Western Government', "Neocon Propaganda" nutters can gather there at the appropriate time and no useful people will be lost.

Win-Win for all of I say.

P.S. Bin Laden's son has been living in Iran since shortly after 9/11. Iran's confirmed it. The enemy of my enemy is my friend.

M. Fernandez, San Francisco,

Esi, London, Uk

I do not believe that this is one of those facts that needs ignoring.Those who know and are well aware what real Islam is, take this threat extremely serious.
When it comes to foreign affairs we should be looking at things with an open mind and what ever UK government does or has done up to today has not been in any way that of harming its own population. So you believe it or not threats are threats and they will be serious or extremely serious depending on who sends them. The Islamic regime of Iran is and it will remain a serious threat to the entire civelized world. It must go, but better leave it for Iranian nation to take care of it .

Esi, London, UK

Oh ..I can't believe they can still sell this garbage with a straight face... Iran working with Alqaeda???

this ia a propaganda overlap.....the spin-sters are trying to make us unlearn a shedload of old propaganda to make way for the new.. They are trying to sell us the idea that Alqaeda is somehow working with Iran.. because it is now expedient that they do so..Iran is now the enemy and hey ALqaeda must be working with them..right?? surely!

YES.. IT is is part of the pre-invasion publicity campaign and only an idiot would buy this nonsense.

William Jameson, Sydney,

An ill wind of a drill. Scary how "Al-Qaeda" [which only exists as a US-UK false flag terror operation] makes this boast the same day False Flag News is warning of nuclear terrorism drills in the US and Europe April 23-27 called "Noble Resolve" (see Globalresearch.ca). I hoped we still had time before their nuclear 9/11 and martial law.

John, Mojave, Calif

The 9/11 & 7/7 conspiracy theorists are beneath contempt. Eric from San Diego: Your assertions about Iran are presented without a shred of evidence.
1. How do you know this so assuredly? Show sources.
2. Wrong. Iran has used Hezbollah as a proxy in its conflict with the U.S., as evidenced by the group's attacks against American and Israeli targets in Saudi Arabia, Lebanon and Argentina over the past three decades. How could you even write such a thing?
3. If you know these intelligence reports are false, prove it. You seem so convinced, it should be easy.
4. I've seen no proof either way, but I would not be surprised if Iran had nothing to do with 9/11. 7/7 may well be a different story. But I'll give Iran the benefit of the doubt. But they were quite happy with the results of both events.
5. If the Coalition left Iraq today, the ensuing vacuum of power would rapidly be filled by blood and bodies and the country would become terrorist training central.

Terry, Sacramento, USA / CA

Looking at a couple of the first posts here. Come on, you think the US and UK bombed themselves? You people are idiots with your heads in the sand.

And yes, there is a war in the mideast, to replace terrorism and murder with democracy in the very heart of an area where rhetoric and terrorists have flowed from for years, they understand it is civilization, democracy and freedom or terror, jihad and closed-minded autocratic rule by people who think they are both church and state. The enemy knows the stakes but reading some of these posts I wonder if people in those democratic nations and societies targeted by these evil murderers do. Face reality now, before you have to in more dramatic fashion.

David Powell, Cape May , NJ, USA

Al Qaeda has struck in Europe and in America before have they not? They are encouraged by weakness to attack even further. The president of Iran is his country's own worst enemy in his barking for the Mullahs who are his master.

Useful dupes will dismiss this report regardless of the level of proof that may ever be presented. Will the children of the Brittish nation that stood nearly alone against Hitler cower now before Islamic Jihadists? was nothing learned by the surrender motive of Chamberlain?

Where are the "peace marchers" in Iran who protest their government's material and financial support of Hezbollah and threaten the destruction of Israel?

Those who suggest any peaceful intent on the part of the Iranian Mullahs should step up an regale us all with news of Iran's commitment to reaching peace in the Middle East.

Dryden, Redmond/Washington, USA

I feel bad for all of you losers who have commented here. The enemy are Western governments? Which countries in the world enjoy the most freedoms? Who is more safe and free to practice their religion: muslim in the US, christian in the middle east? You all seem to be thinking that we are the evil in this world, and who can blame you with the garbage that western media typically spews. Yet, a report comes out detailing that Al Qaeda is planning another attack, and your first reaction is that we're so evil and devious that it must be a trick.

You are all pathetic, I hope you don't crash driving home dodging the black helicopters.

Derek, San Diego, CA, USA

Jim wrote: "In London, on July 7th, 2005, there was a drill simulating multiple bombings on the underground railway that was eerily interrupted by multiple bombings on the underground railway..."

... as Peter Power of Visor Consultants told BBC later that day. Many statisticians have concluded that the probability for the exercises and the real events purely coinciding that way temporally, locationally, and methodologically, is so small as to be nonexistent. But even that is not all...

On May 6, 2004, the BBC Panorama program depicted a fictional terrorist attack involving four suicide bombs: three trains on the London Underground were blown up between 8-9 am, and one more explosion happened on a large street vehicle an hour or so later, in central London. A scenario that was quite precisely realized a year later. The transcript of the program can be read on BBC's web page.

One would expect such a triple "coincidence" to raise a lot of surprise and discussion. Apparently, it hasn't.

Nordic, Helsinki, Finland

People of the western world have been robbed blind by the super rich who are afaid the dis-enfranchised, indebted masses will rebel against their rule and their robbery, so they have to find an enemy. Create Clash of civilisation between the West and Islam to keep people afraid and focused on a enemy.

However,thanks to the internet and the great analysis carried out by independent researchers around the world of the 9/11 New York and 7/7 London event and what really happened there, people are no longer willing to buy government propaganda and are seeing through all the false flag operations, that the hidden hands of the secret services of Britain and America carry out to push their program to create clash of civilisations between Islam and the West.

Vincente, Barcelona, Spain

WHAT A BUNCH OF BALONEY THIS IS! ARE YOU KIDDING ME? Let's put a stop to this nonsense right now.

1. Iran has nothing to do with Al Qaeda. Iran is a predominately Shiite muslim population, and members of Al Qaeda are traditionally Sunni.

2. Iran has ABSOLUTELY NO MOTIVE to attack ANYONE. Period. Iran is not that stupid. They have a vested interest in peace for the region just like everyone else does. They furthermore know they would be severely retaliated against if they are out of line.

3. These 'leaked' stories from 'anonymous intelligence sources' are nothing more than extremely weak attempts at convincing the world more military action is needed (when it is not).

4. Iran had ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to do with either 9/11 or 7/11.

5. If the US government insists that pulling the troops out of Iraq will cause the 'terrorists' to attack us 'at home', then what in the hell is this?? US and British troops are IN Iraq and the terrorists are suppoedly STILL going to attack us!

Eric, San Diego, CA

hahaha. This article is the biggest joke since "Mission Accomplished". The banner used by Bush and the Navy to proclaim victory in Iraq. haha.

Al Qaeda is now in Iran? Do you they really think we are that stupid? Iran has nothing to do with Al Qaeda and 9/11.

Iraq also has nothing to do with them.

This is just a pre-planned brain washing tactic used the media. Just to point finger at Al Qaeda. So, when something does happend, maybe a "terrorists attack" make you people stupid morons blame it on Al Qaeda who now his ties with Iran.

Give me a FN break. Al Qaeda? Mother F Al Qaeda. Al Qaeda is as real as Santa Claus. The only time you see the two, is when someone dresses up and pretends to be one.

Andrew, CALI, Orange

This is a VERY concerning report, especially for anyone who has scientifically evaluated all the evidence concerning the attacks of 9/11 and 7/7.

It appears that we are being prepared by MI5/MI6 and the British government for a massive False Flag terrorist attack bigger than 9/11. This will be an attack that will be totally provocateured by the Anglo-American military industrial complex. There is no depth that the intelligence operatives of the military industrial complex will stoop, in terms of murdering their fellow citizens, and the order of death will be in the hundreds of thousands.

Other than that the only real reason for this report would be to continue the fear-mongering and the beating of the jingoistic war drums, to pre-program the population for the coming war in Iran.

Disgusting, filthy, propaganda and lies from MI5/MI6.

Steve Holmes, Southampton, England, UK

My advice to "J Currie" is go educate yourself on why women wear those veils. That means analyising the argument from ALL sides, not just the one that suits your own prejudices! You talk about living in the 21 century, well one way to overcome primitivity and a narrow mind is by obtaining knowledge, rather than staying with the age old 'ignorance is bliss'!


As for all those who believe everything our government and the security services tell them...grow up why don't you!

If you are not able to figure it out by now, you deserve nothing but ridicule! We were lied and cheated into an illegal war in Iraq..now they are trying the same thing with Iran!


Is there no end to the depths of peoples' stupidity?!

Zara, London, UK

I'm afraid that these days I am so cynical about the way things are run that I am of the opinion this is nothing more than a ploy to distract us from the 'cash fo honours' scandal, which is all set to spoil Tony Blair's triumphal exit.

Oh, I've no doubt there's always intelligence to hand of someone wanting to attack us from somewhere. Our adherence to America's foreign policy assures that. But it's how - and when - that intelligence is communicated to the public that is the key to it all.

We are supposed to be living in times of war. Well, during those times propoganda is used widely by both sides on each other and on their own. We would do well to remember that.

Ross Woodhouse, Brighton,

How convenient for Tony Blair, George Bush, Ehud Olmert and all the other leaders of the "Axis of Evil" nations. A distraction for Blair, justification of a draft for Bush, another step in the "Clean Break" masterplan for Olmert, and no visible benefit to those who would apparently carry out this operation. The only possible beneficiaries seem to be those on the side being attacked. What a surprise.

Paul Berryman, Cairns, Australia

It's another attempt at the real terrorists (western governments) to plant the seed of fear into their subjects, they don't see us as civilians anymore!. they plant enough propaganda into our couch potatoe,non thinking minds so that we not only support their sick invasions and cheer as they bomb innocent foriegners with their "shock-and awe" ariel attacks. Then by the time they're offering no-bid contracts to their favourite corporations who take every penny of their profits out of the countries we're back to watching our celebrity saturated blue glowing boxes(tv)

simon, warrington, united kingdom

The only man who has the ability to inspire real terror in me is Gordon Brown every time I think about the future. Al-Qaeda only give me a mild feeling of unsettled occasionally. Make poverty history. Well Gordon has made poverty well enough and time will do the rest. What have I to fear from terrorists? Not a lot.

David Cage, Highworth, UK

The comments suggest that the British public has lost its faith in those working at the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre based at MI5 headquarters.
What can be done to restore confidence that the group is not carrying out some war mongering plan without revealing sources and methods?

Wallace Edward Brand, Alexandria, Virgnia, USA

Generally, when a "report" is leaked, it is leaked for a reason. The comparison to Hiroshima and Nagasaki seems tailor-made to create the specter of a dangerously nuclear Iran in people's minds. In other words, this is part of a pre-invasion publicity campaign against Iran.

EKSwitaj, Zhengzhou, China

The danger as always is when the church gets mixed up with the state.
Enough of these maniacs claiming to act in the name of God.
Theirs is a warped,degraded and medieval view of the world.
Walking down a street in london I couldnt help but notice a small child on a scooter turning around and looking at two veiled women.The expression of shock in his face said it all.
It time to embrace the twenty first century and surely that starts with treating women as equal human beings.
Turban wearing bearded men hiding in caves is another reason to stand up for decency and humanity.
God is pure Love,nothing more ,nothing less.

J Currie, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland

It doesn't take long for the pram-pushing, anti-war liberals and their trendy lefty mates to come out of the woodwork at the first sign of any criticism towards muslim terrorists and those who support them.

Using terms like neocon makes them feel like they have their fingers on the pulse of international affairs when in reality their world stretches as far as the daily school run and the cost of child minding services.

The truth is that Al-Qaeda remains a global threat to the West and sooner or later they will strike again.

That threat goes way beyond the presence of Bush and Blair and living in a state of self-denial will not save you if fate finds you in the wrong place, at the wrong time, as it did for 54 people on the London Underground in 2005.

Andrew Murray, London, UK

Seeing as Iranians are Shia and Al Qaeda are Wahabist Sunni (who hate Shias more than the West) it is unlikely that Al Qaeda can gain support in Iran.

The Iranians do not want war with the west. It is all rather convenient given the recent events (the RN border cock up) to bring up the spectre of Al Qaeda/Iranian collusion behind terrorism.

One more thing, Where's Osama?

LordShaw, Tingham,

I read this story after reading and listening to this last night.

Noble Resolve 07: Four days of “simulated” nuclear terrorist scenarios in the US & Europe ....

http://www.prisonplanet.com/articles/april2007/190407resolve.htm

On September 11th, 2001, drills that simulated a hijacked aircraft attack on the US were underway when hijacked aircraft were used to attack America. In London, on July 7th, 2005, there was a drill simulating multiple bombings on the underground railway that was eerily interrupted by multiple bombings on the underground railway.

So, I can understand why these drills for a nuclear terror attack have some people worried.

Jim Miller, Grand Rapids, MI

Congratulations. Least surprising news ever.

Ben, York,

I wonder what the above commenters have to say if such an attack was carried out. Are they actually waiting for such an attack to be carried out? What will the West have to say if such an attack is carried out? Of course if such an attack was carried out we surly have lost, the west has lost and civilisation has lost. I say it is better to fight a war out there rather than in our back garden.

Of course empires have never worked, but then that’s how the world has always worked. I think we should learn from what history has to teach us. If we are being deceived than it is the peoples fault for re-electing their leaders after they realise they are deceived. Maybe our election system doesn’t work maybe nothing in this world works, maybe that is why we ought to gratify our intellectuals and make it easer for everyone to have access to intellectual debates, rather than have the media talk about David Beckham’s new hair style.

Andy, Liverpool,

I have to agree with Sam on this one. This sounds like unsubstantiated claims (based on propaganda and alarmist fiction), which is aimed at making it easier for Britain to go along with any US attacks on Iran. The Iranian regime (which is far from perfect), does not have any ties to Al Quaeda (a Sunni group, funded by the US, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan). George Bush tried to link Osama Bin Laden to Sadaam Hussein, in order to enrage the American people and make war more acceptable. We have to be more aware of what the different political agendas are trying to achieve in the Middle East. A full blown conflict with Iran would spread far beyond the region, and make the current disaster in Iraq pale in comparison.

Andy, Rochester, England

is this not just another ploy to try and justify being in Iraq and afghanistan and this on the eve of elections

anton, PE, south africa

More neocon propaganda?? That's what it sounds like to me. Al qaeda has never gotten along with Iran. WHAT ABOUT THE REPORTS THAT iRAN WAS OFFERING TO GIVE AL QAEDA MEMBERS THAT IT HAS IN CUSTODY TO THE U.S IF THEY WOULD NORMALIZE THEIR BILATERAL RELATIONS WITH iRAN??? Bush and his Ziocon backers want to attack Iran and would manufacture evidence to justify such an attack as they did in Iraq with the forged Niger uranium papers & the confession (after torture by Egypt) of ???Sheik that al qeada was working together with Iraq. The U.S./Brit lie factory never gets confused by facts or the truth. They tell it the way THEY want it to be.

Thomas, Katama, U.S.A.

It would be far easier to just be upfront and say we want to attack Iran instead of finding 'excuses' to justify it! (yawn yawn)

Again, lack of evidence, but hey it doesn't stop the contstant accusation that Iran support insurgencies in Iraq!

Natalie, London, UK

One lesson from the marketing campaign leading up to the Iraq War is that articles containing unnamed sources cannot be trusted. This story didn't contain a single named source. Then, those sources told us that Iraq was on the verge of a nuke, had drones ready to spray chemical weapons on the West, was involved in the anthrax attacks in the US, and was working closely with al Qaeda. Now, they tell us that Iran is turning a blind eye to al Qaeda's preparations for a huge attack. To quote GWB, "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, won't get fooled again."

Do you really think that Iranians think they would benefit from another terrorist attack in the West, particularly one that involved preparations in Iran?

This is likely part of the campaign to prepare public opinion for attacks on Iran. We've already heard about Iran's nukes, IEDs made in Iran, weapons from Iran, and Iran's bogeyman Ahmadinejad.

telegram sam, London, UK

Seems to be a lot of speculation in this report.

Is there any real evidence of any relationship between Al Q and Iran let alone a formal one?

The UK (and US) "intelligence (oxymoron) community" has been proven to be totally wrong on occassion and even worse prone to being politically manilupated to produce conclusions that suit the masters. why believe what they leak?

So far a lot of "attacks" against the UK have been foiled but only a few people actually charged with real terrorists offences. And the only real attacks were home grown.

Let's get the threat in perspective. Even if there is an attack that kills 100s te country will continue to function and most people will be unaffected. Not the end of the world. More peopel die from taking too many drugs or in car accidents every year.

kev, Shanghai, China

it is ather israil involved to put us&iran on war or it is planing to do so but iran needs stayablity will never do embaresment .iran do not need risk.but If u.k & us helpe iran or aske for help iran can be the most help full one to rely to end al-Qaeda for ever.....

ali, iran ,