Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE=2/24/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=UN / IRAQ / RESOLUTION (S)

NUMBER=2-299987

BYLINE=JENNY BADNER

DATELINE=UNITED NATIONS

INTERNET=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: A new resolution declaring Iraq in violation of U-N demands to disarm, is expected to be introduced shortly in the U-N Security Council. Correspondent Jenny Badner reports from the United Nations.

TEXT: A U-S diplomat says that Britain called the special, closed-door session. The meeting is expected to focus on a new U-S and British proposal declaring that Iraq has failed to comply with U-N demands to give up its weapons of mass destruction and faces military force.

U-N chief weapons inspector Hans Blix reportedly said that Iraq must begin dismantling its al-Samoud missiles by Saturday. Iraq has not said if it will comply.

For months, the Security Council has been divided over how to disarm Iraq.

Permanent Council members China, Russia, and France oppose disarming Iraq militarily. France says it will present its own memorandum on the issue.

U-S and British diplomatic efforts to sway the Council continue. The only non-permanent members of the Council who have said they back the U-S and British stance are Bulgaria and Spain.

A Security Council resolution needs nine-votes to pass without vetoes from permanent Council members. (SIGNED)

NEB/JB/RAE/FC