The U.S. with the help of other intelligence agencies was able to break up a bomb plot. The plot was to have a bomb explode on a commercial airline flight destined for the United States.
The CIA was able to seize the explosive device planned to be used on the plane and said it was similar to previous ones that have been used by al-Qaeda. A counter terrorist spokesman in the U.S. said that the plot was uncovered before anyone in the U.S. was threatened and at no time were any airlines at risk.
An explosive device that was non-metallic similar to the one used in the failed attempt to blow up a jet bound for Detroit in 2009 was recovered. The device was meant to be used by a single suicide bomber.
Leon Panetta the Secretary of Defense said the plot is just another reason that the country must continue to be vigilant against others that want to attack the country. He also said everything would be done to make sure America is safe.
The FBI is testing the device that was seized to determine if it was strong enough to bring down a plane and if it would have been capable of passing security checks at airports.