CBS News received a report from freelance journalist Behroz Khan Thursday indicating that the Taliban was now trying to distance itself from Shahzad. Azam Tariq, the group's spokesman, denied a link to the suspect while while praising his bravery.

"This is a noble job and we pray that all the Muslim youths should follow Faisal Shahzad. But he is not part of our network," Tariq said.

Tariq said the plot was "hatched by the U.S. and its allies to trap Muslim and Pushtun youth in terrorist activities."

He also vowed that the group will "launch attacks against the U.S. and its allies with a new zeal and style The U.S. and its European allies are our target."

Wow, what a shame that such a handsome and well educated young man has involved himself in attempting to murder innocent people on the streets of New York.  It was reported that he was angry over friends killed in US drone attacks in Pakistan.  It is totally misguided to kill more innocent people; which may have even included Muslims, to somehow avenge your loss of friends.  It was reported the street vendor who noticed the vehicle used in this plot was quoted to have said, "See something, say something," and I would only hope that our Islamic community adopts this mantra in saving our youth from such folly, and protecting society against such madness.