Islamic State leader reportedly releases rare audio message

BAGHDAD, Dec. 26 (UPI) -- Leader of the Islamic State militant group Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi released a rare audio message, encouraging IS soldiers and mocking the United States and other opposition.

Al-Baghdadi, in the 24-minute message released Saturday, declared allied forces "do not dare" carry out further attacks on the ground.

"Here are the Christian Crusaders and the nations of disbelief and their group with them, and behind them the Jews. They do not dare to come here on the ground to fight a small group of mujahedeen," he said according to the Wall Street Journal. "They do not dare to come, because their hearts are full of fear from the mujahdeen."

The voice on the recording also offers words of encouragement to IS soldiers according to CNN, assuring them that they have chosen the proper side.

"Soldiers of the Islamic State be patient because you are on the right path," the recording said. "Be patient, because God is with you."

Multiple news sources could not confirm authenticity of the audio message.