Islam Would Bring US Out of Crisis: Qaeda Leader

Al-Qaeda's No. 2 leader appeared in a new video posted today calling on Americans to embrace Islam to overcome the financial meltdown, which he said was a consequence of the Sept. 11 attacks and militant strikes in Iraq and Afghanistan. Ayman al-Zawahiri's 80-minute recording also lashed out at Afghanistan's government and said any US gains in Iraq will be temporary.

Appearing in a white turban and robe, Zawahiri said the US financial crisis would continue "as long as the foolish American policy of wading in Muslim blood continues." He called on the American people to "embrace Islam to live a life free of greed, exploitation, and forbidden wealth." (More al-Qaeda stories.)