Counterterrorism: On the Alert Again for Millennial Mayhem

Although there hasn't been much noise about terrorism as the year 2001 approaches, the FBI and Defense Department have quietly put their counterterror units in a state of high alert. Reason: Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, which ends on Dec. 26, includes the Night of Power, marking the time the first verses of the Koran were revealed to the prophet Muhammad. The anniversary of that holy event falls on Dec. 23 and is thought by FBI analysts to be of particular significance to radical Jihadists such as OSAMA BIN LADEN. According to one FBI official, as many as three aborted terrorist events may have been intended for around that night last Ramadan, including an alleged plot to bomb U.S.S. The Sullivans when it refueled in Aden on Jan. 3, 2000. Increasing the worry this year is the flurry of preparations for the impending Inauguration of George W. Bush, the son of the man who waged the Persian Gulf War. The FBI's crisis command center is operating 24-7, with agents working through the Christmas and New Year's holidays. As the Inauguration approaches, the FBI, DOD, Secret Service and other local and federal units will run counterterror exercises in the Washington area.

--By Elaine Shannon/Washington