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 ...