Bin Laden Declares War On Musharraf
This article is from the archive of The New York Sun before the launch of its new website in 2022. The Sun has neither altered nor updated such articles but will seek to correct any errors, mis-categorizations or other problems introduced during transfer.
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — Osama bin Laden declared war on President Musharraf of Pakistan, calling him “a tyrant” and “an apostate.”
The threat came yesterday as General Musharraf, an ally in the American-led war on terror, said he will seek re-election on October 6 despite legal challenges to his eligibility.
Mr. bin Laden urged Muslims to avenge the radicals who died when government forces stormed their mosque in Islamabad three months ago.
“So Pervez, his ministers, his soldiers, and those who help him are all accomplices in spilling the blood of those of the Muslims who have been killed. He who helps him knowingly and willingly is an infidel like him,” he added.
It was the first time that Mr. bin Laden has directly threatened General Musharraf, prompting concern that attacks on Pakistani security forces may intensify.
Major General Waheed Arshad, the chief military spokesman, said: “We are already committed to fighting extremists and terrorists.
“The whole nation is behind us and the Pakistan army is a national institution.”
America has given Pakistan at least $10 billion in military aid in five years, which is linked to its role in the war on terror, including fighting pro-Taliban elements along its border with Afghanistan.
