U.S. intelligence analysts say the voice on an audiotape purportedly from al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden is indeed that of the terrorist leader.
The tape - first broadcast Thursday by Arab broadcaster Al-Jazeera - says there are plans for a new attack in the United States, but offers a "long-term" truce if American forces pull out of Iraq and Afghanistan.
The White House flatly rejected the offer, with a spokesman saying the United States does not negotiate with terrorists.
The message says heightened security in the United States has not prevented attacks. It says the delay is simply due to preparations for new operations.
There has been no specific information on when the tape was recorded, but the voice makes reference to sinking public opinion polls for President Bush.
This is Osama bin Laden's first message since December, 2004.
Some information for this report provided by AP, AFP.