The Arab satellite network Al Jazeera broadcast an audiotape today purportedly from Saddam Hussein.
On the tape, which has not been authenticated, Saddam claims he is doing well “among Iraqis” and promises more attacks on Americans in Iraq, according to Reuters.
“I am still present in Iraq along with a group of [former Iraqi] leaders,” said the voice, which claimed the recording was made June 14.
The person purporting to be Saddam asks Iraqis to protect resistance fighters and to not help the U.S. “infidel occupiers,” Reuters said.
Addressing Iraqis directly, he claimed credit for armed attacks on U.S. occupation forces in Iraq and said, “Oh brothers and sisters, I relay to you good news: Jihad cells and brigades have been formed.”
The voice said he refused to hold on to power if that meant submitting to American threats.
“We have sacrificed the government,” he said. “But we will not sacrifice our principles or surrender.”
Yesterday, the U.S. announced a $25 million reward for Saddam’s capture or confirmation of his death. $15 million each was offered for his sons, Uday and Qusay.
Remnants of Saddam’s government have been blamed for many of the attacks that have killed 27 American troops since the end of major combat was declared May 1.
Citing U.S. military officials, Fox News said if resistance fighters believe the former Iraqi president is still alive, it may give them more reason to fight coalition forces.
“We have to assume that Saddam is alive … he is trying to appeal to the Arab mindset,” said Fox News military analyst Lt. Gen. Tom McInerney.
“We need to track [the tape] and watch it closely. It is a very significant thing.”
Who won the VP debate? Donald Trump
Larry Elder