Muslims in Ghazipur protest against al-Qaeda

Ghazipur, Feb 12 (ANI): Muslims in Ghazipur staged a demonstration against the recently announced al Qaeda's threat to India.

They burnt effigies of Abu al-Yazid and al Qaeda Chief Osama Bin Laden and warned the al Qaeda against threatening India.We are protesting against the terrorists. We have burnt their effigies. Whenever they'll make such statements, we will protest against it. We will give a strong reply back to them, " said Gauhar, a protestor.

On Tuesday Al-Qaeda Commander Mustafa Abu al-Yazid, in Afghanistan had warned India of more attacks like the one on Mumbai, and said its economic interests would be targeted if it retaliates against Pakistan.

Ironically, Yazid was declared killed by Pakistan in an army operation in August 2008.

Abu al-Yazid has been referred to as al Qaeda's third most senior figure, after the elimination or capture of five earlier occupants of the number three spot since 2001.

The September 11 Commission described Abu al-Yazid as the network's "chief financial manager". He is an Egyptian and served for sometime in jail with al Qaeda deputy leader Ayman al-Zawahri after the assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat in 1981.

India has repeatedly said it is keeping all options open despite Pakistan's denials on the Mumbai attacks, raising the possibility of Indian attacks on what it sees as militant targets in Pakistan. (ANI)