Bin Laden calls for Gaza jihad

Jan 14 - A new audio statement said to be from Osama bin Laden is released on the internet.

The White House says the audio, which calls for a jihad (holy struggle) over the Israeli offensive in Gaza, demonstrates the al Qaeda leader's isolation and is likely an effort to raise money.

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) ALLEGED VOICE OF AL QAEDA LEADER OSAMA BIN LADEN:

"Our brothers in Palestine, you have suffered a lot.... the Muslims sympathise with you in what they see and hear. We, the mujahideen, sympathise with you also..."

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) ALLEGED VOICE OF AL QAEDA LEADER OSAMA BIN LADEN:

"We are with you and we will not let you down. Our fate is tied to yours in fighting the Crusader-Zionist coalition, in fighting until victory or martyrdom." (SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) ALLEGED VOICE OF AL QAEDA LEADER OSAMA BIN LADEN:

"God has bestowed us with the patience to continue the path of jihad for another seven years, and seven and seven... The question is, can America continue its war with us for several more decades to come? Reports and evidence would suggest otherwise."