Taliban chief and spiritual leader Mullah Mohammad Omar on Monday said that world terrorism could only be defeated if the US withdrew its forces from the Gulf region, an Afghan news agency reported. “The United States should not harbour any misunderstanding. It cannot come out of the current crisis if it kills me or Osama,” he said in a statement, referring to indicted terrorist mastermind Osama bin Laden.
If America wants to end terrorism it should withdraw its forces from the Gulf and end its partiality on the Palestine issue.
The reclusive Taliban leader`s comments reflected the stated mission of Saudi millionaire bin Laden - to drive US forces out of the Islamic holy lands. Omar said current US preparations for war in retaliation for bin Laden`s alleged role in the September 11 suicide hijackings in New York and Washington were an attempt to overthrow Taliban regime and take Islam hostage.
It should free Islam, which it has made its hostage and stop interference in the affairs of Islam, he said.
The present situation in Afghanistan is a good example of US attempts to take Islam hostage. The US wants to end the Islamic system in Afghanistan, create lawlessness and establish a pro-American government.
Taliban on Sunday said bin Laden, who has been living in Afghanistan under Taliban protection since 1996, had disappeared before officials could present him with a religious edict asking him to leave the country voluntarily.

Bureau Report