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29 October 1997

TEXT: U.N. SECURITY COUNCIL STATEMENT ON IRAQ

(Condemns Iraqi move to ban American weapons inspectors) (500)
United Nations -- The Security Council October 29 condemned Baghdad's
decision to bar American U.N. weapons inspectors from Iraq and warned
of "serious consequences" if it did not allow the U.N. to operate as
it sees fit.
The statement was read by Council President Juan Samovia of Chile at a
formal meeting within hours after receiving the Iraqi demand.
British Ambassador Sir John Weston, who submitted the statement on
behalf of the council's five permanent members, pointed out after the
meeting that agreement on the statement by the council's 15 members
was quick. The council, he said, is "fully, strongly, and promptly
behind it.... The statement shows strength of purpose (and) support of
the council for UNSCOM's work."
"The Security Council condemns the decision of the Government of Iraq
to try to dictate the terms of its compliance with its obligations to
cooperate with the Special Commission. It demands that Iraq cooperate
fully, in accordance with the relevant resolutions without conditions
or restrictions, with the Special Commission in the implementation of
its mandate," the statement said.
The head of the Special Commission overseeing the destruction of Iraqi
weapons (UNSCOM), Richard Butler, suspended operations in Iraq and
canceled talks with Iraqi officials after being told by Baghdad that
American weapons inspectors employed by UNSCOM will not be allowed in
the country and those already there must leave within seven days.
Following is the text of the council's statement:
(Begin text)
The Security Council has considered the letter of 29 October 1997 from
the Deputy Prime Minister of Iraq to the President of the Security
Council conveying the unacceptable decision of the Government of Iraq
to seek to impose conditions on its cooperation with the Special
Commission, thereby preventing the Special Commission from discharging
its responsibilities under resolutions 687 (1991), 699 (1991), 707
(1991), 715 (1991), 1051 (1996), 1060 (1996), 1115 (1997) and 1134
(1997).
The Security Council recalls its demands in resolution 1134 (1997)
that Iraq cooperate fully with the Special Commission in accordance
with the relevant resolutions, which constitute the governing standard
of Iraqi compliance.
The Security Council condemns the decision of the Government of Iraq
to try to dictate the terms of its compliance with its obligation to
cooperate with the Special Commission. It demands that Iraq cooperate
fully, in accordance with the relevant resolutions without conditions
or restrictions, with the Special Commission in the implementation of
its mandate. The Council furthermore reminds the Government of Iraq of
its responsibility for the safety and security of the personnel of the
Special Commission and its inspection teams.
The Security Council warns of the serious consequences of Iraq's
failure to comply immediately and fully with its obligations under the
relevant resolutions. The Council is determined to ensure rapid and
full Iraqi compliance with the relevant resolutions and for that
purpose will remain actively seized of the matter.
(End text)