America on war footing

Speculation is growing that America is on the verge of military action in retaliation for last week’s atrocity.

Reports emanating from the US say it is he biggest build up of forces since the Gulf War and that possible air strikes against Afghanistan may come in days.

President George Bush is this morning at Camp David with his chief military advisors.

He has said that Americans ‘not only want revenge but to win a war.’

However, a Russian veteran of the Russian/Afghan conflict has warned America that any military action against Afghanistan will create a situation ‘worse than Vietnam.’

The UN is also warning that an invasion of Afghanistan will provoke a humanitarian crisis, not just in that country but also in neighbouring Pakistan.

Meanwhile, a massive investigation continues to identify those behind last week’s atrocity, investigators have found the passport of one of the suspected hijackers near the ruins of New York’s World Trade Centre.

The discovery has prompted an intensive search for evidence among the rubble of the twin towers.

In a further development, a second man has been arrested in connection with Tuesday’s attacks. Both suspects are being detained as material witnesses.