Group warns Germany and Austria to quit Afghanistan

UAE: An Islamist group called on Germany and Austria to withdraw their troops from Afghanistan to prevent attacks against the two countries.

“Why would you (Germany) want all this (economic interests) threatened for the sake of (U.S. President George W.) Bush and his band?” the Voice of the Khalifate said in a video posted on an Islamist Web site used by militants, including al Qaeda. “Isn’t it stupid to encourage the mujahideen to launch attacks in your country?”

The speaker pointed out that Austria relied on tourism for an important part of its revenue, adding: “This situation would change if there is a security threat and Austria becomes a country targeted by the mujahideen.”

The tape also featured a portion of an old video of al Qaeda’s deputy leader Ayman al-Zawahri.

Dubai, Sunday, Reuters