Bush braces America for action

George W Bush has demanded that the Taliban turn over to the United States all the leaders of Osama's bin Laden's network "who hide in your land".

In a speech to Congress the president also called for the release of all foreign nationals, including American citizens who have been imprisoned in Afghanistan.

President Bush also directed US military forces to "be ready" for the gathering battle against terrorists.

Mr Bush demanded that the Taliban "close immediately and permanently every terrorist camp in Afghanistan and hand over every terrorist and every person in their support structure to appropriate authorities".

And he demanded full US access to terrorist training camps in Afghanistan "so we can make sure they are no longer operating".

These demands are not open to discussion, Mr Bush said. "They will hand over the terrorists or they will share in their fate."

Mr Bush condemned the Taliban religious militia that rules most of Afghanistan and gives bin Laden refuge.

Nine days after suicide hijackers are believed to have killed more than 6,000 Americans, Mr Bush told the joint session of Congress: "I will not forget this wound to our country, or those who inflicted it. I will not yield. I will not rest."

Mr Bush also promised to take defensive measures, including the creation of a Cabinet-level body position called the Office of Homeland Security headed by Pennsylvania Governor Tom Ridge.