In an audio message to President Barack Obama, Al Qaeda's leader, Ayman al-Zawahiri, called Obama a "house negro" and said he is the opposite of honorable black Americans like Malcolm X. The video version of the message featured images and footage of Malcolm X speaking and an image of Barack Obama from his trip to Israel. The video is subtitled in English.Telegraph: Al-qaeda Leader Racially Abuses Barack Obama (November 19, 2008)

Zawahiri also warned Obama, "a heavy legacy of failure and crime awaits you."CNN: Al Qaeda message to Obama: A 'legacy of crimes' awaits you (November 19, 2008)

"You have reached the position of president, and a heavy legacy of failure and crimes awaits you. A failure in Iraq to which you have admitted, and a failure in Afghanistan to which the commanders of your army have admitted."CNN: Al Qaeda message to Obama: A 'legacy of crimes' awaits you (November 19, 2008)

"In you and in Colin Powell, [[Condoleezza Rice|[Condoleezza] Rice]] and your likes, the words of Malcolm X (may Allah have mercy on him) concerning 'house Negroes' are confirmed."CNN: Al Qaeda message to Obama: A 'legacy of crimes' awaits you (November 19, 2008)

"If you still want to be stubborn about America's failure in Afghanistan, then remember the fate of Bush and Pervez Musharraf, and the fate of the Soviets and British before them. And be aware that the dogs of Afghanistan have found the flesh of your soldiers to be delicious, so send thousands after thousands to them."CNN: Al Qaeda message to Obama: A 'legacy of crimes' awaits you (November 19, 2008)