Note: The following post is an exact quote:
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http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/1498219/posts
Bin Laden deputy's letter outlines global jihad vision
HoustonChronicle.com ^ | Oct 7,2005 | By ROBIN WRIGHT Washington Post
Posted on 10/07/2005 12:48:35 AM PDT by Jim Robinson
U.S. intercepts message sent to Iraqi insurgents
WASHINGTON - The United States has obtained a letter from Osama bin Laden's deputy to the leader of Iraq's insurgency that outlines a long-term strategic vision for a global jihad, with the next phase of the war to be taken into Egypt, Syria and Lebanon, according to U.S. officials.
~snip~
The administration official said the 13-page document is dated in early July and provides a "comprehensive look at al-Qaida's strategy in Iraq and beyond" with "chilling clarity."
~snip~
The letter of instructions and requests outlines a four-stage plan, according to officials: 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.
~snip~
But bin Laden's deputy also purportedly makes clear that the war would not end with a U.S. withdrawal and that anything other than religious rule in Iraq would be dangerous.
~snip~
He also rebukes the leader of Iraq's insurgency for its brutal tactics noting that hostages can just as effectively be killed with bullets rather than by beheading, officials said.
(Excerpt) Read more at chron.com ...