WORLD TRADE CENTER TRIAL BEGINS

Jury selection began today in the trial of 12 Muslims accused of plotting to blow up the World Trade Center and other New York City landmarks. The explosion in the trade center on February 26, 1993 killed six people and injured more than 1,000. The other targets allegedly on the group's list included the United Nations, the FBI's New York headquarters and tunnel crossings into New Jersey. Federal prosecutors allege that the 12 men were waging a "war of urban terrorism" to punish the U.S. for supporting Israeli and Egyptian governments. The defense is likely to argue that the Muslims are the victims of entrapment and an overzealous informant. Opening statements may start by the end of the month.