Homeland Security

DATE=3/18/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=U-S / SECURITY ALERT (S-ONLY)

NUMBER=2-300828

BYLINE=KYLE KING

DATELINE=WASHINGTON

VOICED AT:

INTRO: The U-S government is warning Americans of possible terror attacks against U-S targets if there is a war with Iraq and has put the country on the second highest level of security alert. V-O-A's Kyle King reports from Washington.

TEXT: Homeland Security chief Tom Ridge announced the increase in the security alert level just minutes after President Bush issued an ultimatum to Saddam Hussein to leave Iraq or face war.

Mr. Ridge said the color-coded terror alert was being raised to "orange," meaning the possibility of a terror attack in the United States is high.

Mr. Ridge said the U-S intelligence community believes that terrorists will attempt "multiple attacks against U-S and coalition targets worldwide" in the event of a military campaign against Saddam Hussein.

President Bush said the United States has in recent days expelled individuals with alleged links to Iraqi intelligence services as a precaution. The United States has asked other nations to take similar steps. (Signed)

NEB/KK/MAR