An audio tape from al-Qaeda ally Abu Musab al-Zarqawi has urged rebel fighters in Fallujah to resist US-led attacks on the city and has claimed victory was certain.
"We have no doubt that the signs of God's victory will appear on the horizon," said the speaker, who sounded like Zarqawi in the tape posted on a website used by Islamists.
"America and those with them felt winds of jihad (holy war) which will shake their thrones and foundations," Zarqawi said.
"I speak to you my nation as the blood of your sons is flowing in Iraq and especially in Fallujah after the onslaught of crusaders," he said.
Zarqawi supporters are reported to be among the insurgents fighting US and Iraqi forces in Fallujah. His group has claimed responsibility for hostage beheadings and some of Iraq's bloodiest suicide attacks.