Question

On what basis did al-Qaeda most likely choose its first American bombing targets?

The targets were at sea, so no one else around would be hurt.
The targets were in Africa, which is not far from the Middle East.

Answer 1

The targets were in Africa, which is not far from the Middle East is the correct answer.

The Al-Qaida-the Islamic Militant organisation who were responsible for 9/11 attack, likely choose its first American bombing targets in Africa, which is not far from middle east, the latter being the cradle of al-Qaida.

Answer 2

Al-Qaeda chose its first American bombing targets if the targets were in Africa, which is not far from the Middle East. The second one is your answer. I hope this is the answer that you are looking for and it comes to your help.