Zarqawi 'warns' US on tape
2005-04-29 20:35
Cairo, Egypt - An audio tape purportedly by America's most-wanted insurgent in Iraq, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, that was posted on Friday threatens more attacks against US forces there and urges fighters to be wary of any American attempts at dialogue.
The authenticity of the 18-minute tape, posted on a website that is known for getting across messages from Islamic militant groups, could not be determined. The voice on the tape sounded similar to previous audiotapes attributed to the Jordanian-born militant, who leads an al-Qaeda affiliate in Iraq.
The voice on the tape directly addressed US President George W Bush, who on Thursday welcomed the new Iraqi government and again promised American help fighting insurgents.
"You, Bush, we will not rest until we avenge our dignity," the voice said. "We will not rest while your army is here as long as there is a pulse in our veins."
It wasn't clear exactly when the tape was made, but the voice on it refers to a newspaper article he said was dated March 19 and then makes a separate reference to it as having come "this month".
The tape urged al-Zarqawi's followers to step up their attacks on American soldiers, vowing that he would "make swords drip with their blood".
"Move ahead with God's blessing," the voice commands followers. "Before the fall of this night, I want to see your swords dripping with the blood of your enemy."
The speaker warned followers against any American overtures for dialogue.
"Be aware, these are the devil's tricks," he warned. "They (the Americans) have offered this dialogue after the defeats they have suffered."
"Fight them in order to avoid sedition. Your holy war will bear fruit," he said.
The United States has offered a $25m reward for information leading to al-Zarqawi's arrest.
- AP