Bin Laden says attack is 'war on Islam'

Osama bin Laden said in a statement read by an aide that war against Afghanistan and him is "war on Islam," according to a video released by Al-Jazeera satellite channel.

Bin Laden was shown dressed in fatigues and an Afghan head-dress, sitting quietly next to his spokesman as the spokesman read the statement. It was not clear when the video was made, but it referred to the 11September attacks, but not to Sunday's retaliation by the United States and Britain.

He said: "America was hit by God in one of its softest spots. America is full of fear from its north to its south, from its west to its east. Thank God for that."

"What happened in the United States is a natural reaction to the ignorant policy of the United States," the statement read by Suleiman Abu Gheit said.

"If it continues with this policy, the sons of Islam will not stop their struggle. The American people have to know that what is happening to them now is the result of their support of this policy," the statement said.

"The war against Afghanistan and Osama bin Laden is a war on Islam."

The video was made in what appeared to be a cave and shot during daylight. Bin Laden appeared composed and often pointed his finger to stress his point.