They knew we were trying to find a peaceful solution there, while calling their other favorite hiding places, ie Iraq, Iran, part of the axis of evil.
GWB also hasn't made any secret of the fact that Somolia, Lebanon, and Syria are prime targets for US Military action should those governments decide to harbor the terrorists.
In fact I believe they were looking to move some operations into Palestinan territory.
We don't need an alien invasion as long as we have the Mideast.