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And that despite the fact that the U.S. embassy in Yemen was on high alert because of threat warnings.

It would be interesting to determine the alert status of the embassy in Kuwait....and if they issue rounds to their guards.

Commanders are so worried about an unwelcome incident if they issue live rounds to their troops. There should be a point at which the alert level/danger level in a particular area makes them liable for incidents in the opposite direction; i.e., our troops who are killed or injured due to overly sensitive or cautious commanders.

If the embassy alert level was in the danger zone, then these commanders should be held accountable for underarming their troops.

Below I have posted the first portion of the state department's information sheet on Kuwait -- obtainable on the web. Notice the date is 12 Aug 02, approximately ONE MONTH ago. Under the section on safety and security notice that Americans are urged to exercise a HIGH level of security awareness.

Not giving live rounds to troops operating in Kuwait is a matter of negligence and should be pursued/prosecuted. This is especially true in light of their own fact sheets.

Kuwait - Consular Information Sheet

August 12, 2002

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: Kuwait is a constitutional hereditary emirate with a mixed economy. Day-to-day life has returned to normal after the 1991 Gulf War, and facilities for travelers are widely available. The workweek in Kuwait is Saturday through Wednesday for most businesses and government offices; it is Sunday through Thursday for commercial banks.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Passports and visas are required for U.S. citizens traveling to Kuwait. For further information on entry requirements, travelers may contact the Embassy of Kuwait at 2940 Tilden St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202) 966-0702, or the Kuwaiti Consulate in New York City, telephone (212) 973-4318. Information also may be obtained from the Consulate's Internet home page at http://www.undp.org/missions/kuwait. Additional information may be obtained from the U.S. Embassy Kuwait home page at http://www.usembassy.gov.kw.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of the relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian if not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

AREAS OF INSTABILITY: Travel to and near the Iraq-Kuwait border is very hazardous. U.S. citizens having legitimate work-related business near the border may receive updated information from the U.S. Embassy and may also wish to consult with their employer's security personnel. Unexploded bombs, mines, booby traps, and other items remain present in some areas in Kuwait. U.S. Embassy personnel are advised to use caution if traveling off paved surfaces outside Kuwait City.

SAFETY AND SECURITY: Americans in Kuwait should exercise a high level of security awareness. The Department of State remains concerned about the possibility of terrorist attacks against United States citizens and interests throughout the world. Americans should maintain a low profile, vary routes and times for all required travel to the extent possible, and treat mail and packages from unfamiliar sources with suspicion. U.S. citizens also are urged to avoid contact with any suspicious, unfamiliar objects, and to report the presence of such objects to local authorities. The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait urges all Americans to be wary of unexpected visitors and to pay particular attention to suspicious vehicles. Any suspicious activity or vehicles should be reported to the Embassy's regional security office.