Homeland Security

DATE=5/20/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=U-S/SAUDI TERROR (S-ONLY)

NUMBER=2-303435

BYLINE=DAVID GOLLUST

DATELINE=STATE DEPARTMENT

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: The United States is closing its embassy and two consulates in Saudi Arabia for at least five days out of concern that further terrorist attacks might be staged against U-S interests in that country. The State Department says the move does not reflect dissatisfaction with Saudi security efforts in the aftermath of last week's suicide attacks in Riyadh which killed 34 people, including eight Americans. V-O-A's David Gollust reports from the State Department.

TEXT: State Department spokesman Richard Boucher says the decision to close the embassy in Riyadh and the U-S consulates in Jedda and Dharan is a "prudent" move in light of what he termed "credible information" that further terrorist attacks are being planned against targets in Saudi Arabia.

The United States is also evacuating diplomatic dependents and non-essential employees from Saudi Arabia, though spokesman Boucher said it is not a critical reflection on the Saudi government's security performance since the May 12th attacks at three housing compounds for Americans and other foreigners:

///Boucher actuality///

The cooperation is ongoing. We've had solid cooperation from the Saudis, particularly with the investigation and since the very unfortunate bombing, I think real determination on both our parts to do everything possible. But the fact is we have a lot of people out there. It's difficult to make the protection perfect.

///end act///

Mr. Boucher said while the investigation is not complete, last week's attacks "bore the hallmarks" of the al-Qaida terror organization. (Signed)

NEB/DAG/RH/FC