'Al-Qaeda threat to intensify in US'

Al-Qaeda is likely to intensify efforts to place operatives inside the United States, according to a new White House report.

The report said the terror organisation has protected its top leadership, replenished operational lieutenants, and "regenerated a safe haven" in Pakistan's tribal areas.

It also said al-Qaeda remains the "most serious and dangerous" terrorism threat to the US.

"Although we have discovered only a handful of individuals in the United States with ties to al Qaeda senior leadership, the group likely will intensify its efforts to place operatives here in the homeland," the National Strategy for Homeland Security report added.

"We also must never lose sight of al-Qaeda's persistent desire for weapons of mass destruction, as the group continues to try to acquire and use chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear material."

The report updated the White House national homeland security strategy issued in July 2002.

President George W Bush also said in a letter accompanying the report: "We recognise that our efforts also must involve offence at home and abroad.

"Today, our nation is safer, but we are not yet safe."

© Independent Television News Limited 2007. All rights reserved.