Saddam 'message' casts shadow as Bush warns of further US strikes

Saddam returned to haunt the Iraqi people after an ominous warning on satellite TV, purportedly from the deposed dictator, suggested he was still in the country directing cells of "holy warriors" against coalition forces.

In Dayton, Ohio, Bush lauded his nation's efforts in the fight against tyranny and terrorism.

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"Without America's active involvement in the world, the ambitions of tyrants would go unopposed, and millions would live at mercy of terrorists. With Americans' active involvement in the world, tyrants learn to fear, and terrorists are on the run," he said.

Saddam's taped message, broadcast on Qatar's Al-Jazeera television, served only to increase the resolve of US force seeking to flush him out from wherever he may be hiding, assuming he is still alive.

Sergeant Amy Abbott told AFP Saturday coalition forces were pursuing Operation Sidewinder, the hunt for followers of Saddam's ousted Baathist regime north of Baghdad where anti-coalition guerrilla attacks have been taking place.

"It is continuing without any hindrance whatsoever," she stressed, adding defiantly: "The operation will be effective regardless."

The voice on the tape said Saddam and his aides were still in the country, and directed cells of "holy warriors" to fight coalition forces.

"I bring you glad tidings, O brethren, sons and heroes, that the cells and brigades of jihad and sacrifice have been formed on a large scale, comprising male and female mujahedeen (holy warriors), and launched their honorable battle against the enemy," the voice said.

"What will come in the days ahead will, God willing and with His help, be tough on the infidel invaders and honorable for the believers.

"I call on you to provide a cover for the heroic mujahedeen and not to give the infidel invaders and their collaborators any information about them and their activities," said the voice.

The supposed former Iraqi leader, whose whereabouts have been a mystery since US-led forces seized Baghdad on April 9, told the Iraqi people: "I miss you, my beloved ones, although I am amidst you and within your ranks."