Saudi commandos

It was the worst terror attack on Saudi soil in a year and the second in May to target the oil industry.

A May 30 statement attributed to al-Qaeda's chief in the Saudi region said the violence was aimed at punishing the kingdom for its oil dealings with the United States and driving "crusaders" from "the land of Islam."

The 25-hour rampage started May 29 when militants dressed in military-style uniforms opened fire inside two oil industry office compounds in Khobar and engaged in a shootout with Saudi guards. They then moved up the street to the Oasis, an upscale resort and residence with apartments, villas and hotels, where they took 45 to 60 hostages.

One militant -- described as the ringleader -- was captured after the assault by the commandos, but three others escaped.

The Japan Times Weekly: June 5, 2004
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