US ramps up security before 9/11 anniversary

WASHINGTON - The United States is ramping up security measures in anticipation of the anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on Tuesday, said the White House on Monday.

According to a White House statement, President Barack Obama was briefed on Monday by "key national security principals on our preparedness and security posture on the eve of the eleventh anniversary of September 11th."

The statement said Obama discussed with the principals on "specific measures we are taking in the Homeland to prevent 9/11 related attacks as well as the steps taken to protect US persons and facilities abroad, as well as force protection."

During the meeting, Obama reiterated that departments and agencies must "do everything possible to protect the American people, both at home and abroad."

The Obama administration has been preparing for the anniversary. The White House said over the past month, John Brennan, assistant to the president for homeland security and counterterrorism, has convened numerous meetings to review security measures in place.