White House spokesman Ari Fleischer said the United States is uncertain if deposed Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein is still alive, and said a new audiotape on which he is said to be speaking will now be examined.
"We don't know whether Saddam Hussein is alive or dead," Fleischer told reporters, adding, "The tape is going to be analyzed."
Fleischer was questioned about the Sydney Morning Herald's claim to have obtained a recording of Saddam urging Iraqis to resist US occupation.
In the 15-minute recording, purportedly made on Monday (local time), a "tired-sounding" voice calls on Iraq's people to unite in an underground war against the US-led occupying forces. (Albawaba.com)
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
