"Credible Terrorist Threat" Unfolds

Two packages containing explosives were found aboard cargo planes en-route to Chicago Friday in what authorities believe could be a terror plot from the Yemeni branch of al-Qaeda.

Speaking from the White House briefing room, President Obama confirmed that the packages, which were discovered on grounded planes in Dubai and the United Kingdom, were addressed to two Chicago-area synagogues. He noted that the incident amounts to a “credible terrorist threat.”

The President said that counter-terrorism and law enforcement agencies will be working to investigate the forces behind the packages.

“Although we are still pursuing all the facts, we do know that the packages originated in Yemen,” Obama said. “We also know that al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, a terrorist group based in Yemen, continues to plan attacks against our homeland, our citizens, and our friends and allies.”

Obama pledged a coordinated response from the U.S. and its allies, and said that the administration will be working with the Yemeni government to counter al-Qaeda influence. In the meantime, the President said that the necessary resources will be dedicated to deterring terrorism.

“The events of the past 24 hours underscores the necessity of remaining vigilant,” Obama said.

Additional planes searched in Newark and Philadelphia failed to turn up any explosive material.