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Bin Laden Deputy Envisions Jihad on New Fronts, War Against Israel

(Washington Post) Robin Wright - The U.S. has obtained a letter dated in early July from Osama bin Laden's deputy, Ayman Zawahiri, to the leader of Iraq's insurgency, Abu Musab Zarqawi, that outlines a long-term strategic vision for a global jihad, with the next phase of the war to be taken into Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, and, eventually, Israel. The letter also warns Zarqawi against alienating the Islamic world, and reprimands the Iraqi branch of al-Qaeda for beheading hostages and then distributing videotapes. The letter outlines a four-stage plan: First, expel American forces from Iraq. Second, establish a caliphate over as much of Iraq as possible. Third, extend the jihad to neighboring countries, with specific reference to Egypt and the Levant - a term that describes Syria and Lebanon. And finally, war against Israel.
2005-10-07 00:00:00
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