The U.S. State Department has issued a worldwide travel alert for Americans because of an al-Qaeda threat.


The State Department says the potential for terrorism is particularly strong in the Middle East and North Africa. It says an attack could occur or come from the Arabian Peninsula.


The department says in a statement that al-Qaeda and its affiliated organizations "continue to plan terrorist attacks both in the region and beyond."


Earlier on Friday, the department announced it was shuttering its embassies and consulates throughout the Muslim world Sunday, and possibly longer, after receiving an unspecified threat.


Spokeswoman Marie Harf cited information indicating a threat to U.S. facilities overseas and said some diplomatic offices may stay closed for more than a day.


More to come