Bin Laden's New Videotape: A Warning to Americans

Strategic Insights -

In a surprise move, just days before the US election, a new Osama bin Laden videotape has been released, the first in over a year. The 18-minute tape was broadcast by Al-Jazeera, a Qatari-based Arab satellite TV channel, and appears to contain specific information about the 9/11 attacks. Bin Laden addresses the American people directly, warning them about the consequences of US policies and warning them to change their ways to avoid another Manhattan attack.

Key Takeaways:

  • The new bin Laden videotape is 18 minutes long and contains specific information about the 9/11 attacks.
  • Bin Laden addresses the American people directly, warning them about the consequences of US policies and warning them to change their ways to avoid another Manhattan attack.
  • The tape seems to focus on the relationship between the US and al-Qaeda, with bin Laden stating that the US has attacked their security, and therefore they will attack the US' security.
  • Bin Laden references President Bush's reaction after the first plane hit the World Trade Center, stating that he expected a military response right away, but instead the attack was allowed to unfold over 20 minutes.
  • The tape appears to have been made recently, according to its date of 10 Ramadan (last Sunday), and shows bin Laden standing straight up, looking strong and healthy.
  • Bin Laden makes reference to the US presidential election, stating that it does not matter whether Bush or Kerry is elected, and that the security of the American people is in their own hands.

Statistics:

  • The new bin Laden videotape is 18 minutes long.
  • The tape contains specific information about the 9/11 attacks.
  • Bin Laden states that he expected a military response from the US right away, but instead the attack was allowed to unfold over 20 minutes.
  • The tape was broadcast by Al-Jazeera and appears to have been made recently, according to its date of 10 Ramadan (last Sunday).

Sources:

  • "This is ALL THINGS CONSIDERED from NPR News. I'm Melissa Block."
  • "With just days to go before the US election, both President Bush and Senator Kerry are turning their attention to Osama bin Laden."
  • Al-Jazeera (Arab satellite TV channel based in Qatar)
  • Osama bin Laden (from videotape)
  • Mike Shuster (NPR)