Militants threaten to kill hostage

(CNN) -- Iraqi militants holding a German man hostage demanded Germany's withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan within 10 days to ensure his safety.

The video from the obscure group Swords of Righteousness appeared Monday on the Internet with a threat to kill Sinan Krause if Berlin doesn't comply. The group said it would slit his throat.

Krause and his mother, Hannelore, both appear in the video. They both disappeared in Iraq on February 6, but the group released her in July after 155 days in captivity.

In early March, the group made the same demand, but the deadline passed without incident.

CNN could not independently confirm the video's authenticity.

The same group also appears to have been involved in the kidnapping of four Christian peace activists nearly two years ago. Three of the hostages were released; one was killed.

Germany has about 3,000 troops in northern Afghanistan, a relatively peaceful part of the war-torn country.

In March, Germany decided to send reconnaissance jets, crew and maintenance staff as additional aid. German troops also help train Iraqi soldiers and police, though not inside Iraq. E-mail to a friend

All About Afghanistan • Iraq • Hostage Situations