WASHINGTON — Intelligence officials say a tip from Saudi Arabia led to the discovery of explosive packages bound for the U.S.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive security information.

Authorities on three continents thwarted multiple terrorist attacks aimed at the United States from Yemen on Friday, seizing two explosive packages addressed to Chicago-area synagogues and packed aboard cargo jets. The plot triggered worldwide fears that al-Qaida was launching a major new terror campaign.

President Barack Obama’s homeland security advisor John Brennan thanked Saudi Arabia for developing the information about terror threat.