Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE=03/19/2003

TYPE=EDITORIAL

NUMBER=0-10499

TITLE=EDITORIAL: SADDAM MUST BE REPLACED

INTERNET=Yes

CONTENT=THIS EDITORIAL IS BEING RELEASED FOR USE BY ALL SERVICES.

Anncr: Next, an editorial reflecting the views of the United States Government:

Voice: The Iraqi regime of Saddam Hussein has a long history of aggression in the Middle East. In the 1980s, Iraq went to war against Iran. In 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait, only to be forced out by a U.S.-led coalition. Saddam Hussein has used poison gas against Iraq's own people, including the Kurdish minority. And, the Iraqi regime has aided, trained, and harbored terrorists, including operatives of al-Qaida.

As part of the Gulf War cease-fire, in 1991, the United Nations required Saddam Hussein to get rid of his weapons of mass destruction. He has been given twelve years, but the Iraqi dictator has failed to do so. As President George W. Bush said, "It is too late for Saddam Hussein to remain in power." Saddam Hussein and his sons must leave Iraq. The alternative is war.

[BUSH ACT :26 - DALET: POLICY OFFICE/EDITORIALS]

"We are now acting because the risks of inaction would be far greater. In one year, or five years, the power of Iraq to inflict harm on all free nations would be multiplied many times over. With these capabilities, Saddam Hussein and his terrorist allies could choose the moment of deadly conflict when they are strongest. We choose to meet that threat now, where it arises." [END ACT]

The U.S. is committed to advancing liberty and peace in the Middle East. As President Bush said, "That is the future we choose. Free nations have a duty to defend our people by uniting against the violent.... And...as we've done before, America and our allies accept that responsibility."

Anncr: That was an editorial reflecting the views of the United States Government. If you have a comment, please write to Editorials, V-O-A, Washington, D-C, 20237, U-S-A. You may also comment at www-dot-voanews-dot-com-slash-editorials, or fax us at (202) 619-1043.