Terror group threatens Italy

A statement purportedly from an Islamic militant group linked to Al-Qaida terror organisation today warned Italy to withdraw its forces from Iraq or it will “shake the earth” in Italy.

Attributed to the Abu Hafs al-Masri Brigades, the statement is the second such threat in two weeks against the government of Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. It was posted on an internet site known for carrying Islamic extremist content.

“This is a warning and a threat to the Italian government, which devoted itself to serving the criminal American crusade, to follow suit with those who preceded you and leave the land of Iraq,” the statement said. ”Otherwise, we will change our correspondence into words of blood and shake the earth everywhere in your (lands).”

“To the despicable Italian prime minister: If you have not heard this threat, then we will make you hear it in Rome, in every place and under the feet of your people, with Allah’s will. We give you, Berlusconi, a few days only, then you will see things that displease you,” it said.

There was no way to verify the authenticity of the statement.

The Italian government has in the past, ignored such threats.

US officials and some terrorism experts believe Abu Hafs al-Masri, which claimed responsibility for the March train bombings that killed about 200 people in Madrid, lacks credibility and has only tenuous ties to al-Qaida.

It has issued claims for events it almost certainly had no involvement, including blackouts in North America and Britain.

A July 16 statement by the same group, threatened to burn Italy if Berlusconi, a staunch supporter of President George Bush, was not removed from office. The premier has remained steadfast, though many Italians have called for a troops’ withdrawal.

On Saturday, another group, The Tawhid Islamic Group, warned Australia and Italy to withdraw their forces from Iraq.

Italy sent 3,000 troops to Iraq after the overthrow of Saddam Hussein to help rebuild the country. The contingent is based in the southern city of Nasiriyah.

Australia has nearly 900 troops in and around Iraq.