Islamist group wants attacks on French in Algeria

DUBAI, Jan 8 (Reuters) The leader of an al Qaeda-linked Algerian militant group called in a web video posted today for attacks against the French and their allies in the North African country.

Abu Musab Abdul-Wadud, leader of the Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (GSPC), said the group was awaiting instructions from Osama bin Laden after acquiring weapons and ammunition.

''To Algerians I say... the French and the allies of Crusaders who occupy our land (Islamic countries) are within your reach and so are the throats of those who sold the blood of martyrs,'' he said.

Reuters DKS VP0320